Nurse Fatally Shot at Shahgarh Community Health Centre in Sagar
In a tragic incident that has shocked the local community, a 26-year-old nurse was shot dead at the gate of the Shahgarh Community Health Centre (CHC) in Sagar on late Wednesday night. The victim, identified as Deepshikha Chadhar, was attacked while arriving for her night shift, leading to an immediate police investigation.
Police Identify Cousin as Prime Suspect in the Case
On Thursday, the police announced that they have solved the crime, naming the victim's cousin, Sushil Athya, as the prime accused. According to authorities, the motive behind the killing stemmed from a one-sided relationship where Sushil was infatuated with Deepshikha and had repeatedly proposed marriage, only to face consistent rejection.
Sushil Athya, a resident of Panagar in Jabalpur district, allegedly travelled to Sagar on Tuesday to conduct reconnaissance. He spent the day learning about Deepshikha's duty hours and her route to work, planning the attack meticulously. On Wednesday evening, he positioned himself near a shop close to the hospital gate, waiting for her arrival.
Details of the Fatal Attack Emerge
When Deepshikha arrived for her night shift, scheduled from 8 pm to 8 am, Sushil allegedly grabbed her hand. As she resisted and freed herself, he pushed her to the ground and fired three rounds from a country-made pistol. One bullet missed its target, but two struck her from behind, piercing her heart and causing immediate death at the scene. The accused then fled towards nearby forested areas as people rushed to the gate upon hearing the gunshots.
Background of the Victim and Accused
Deepshikha, a native of Patan in Jabalpur, had been posted at the Shahgarh CHC for approximately two years and lived in a rented room about 200 metres from the hospital. She and Sushil had completed their nursing course together, but their paths diverged after she secured a government job and moved to Shahgarh.
While Deepshikha built her career, Sushil remained unemployed and continued to pursue her, often calling and pressing for marriage. When she eventually cut off contact, he allegedly began harbouring deep resentment, which investigators believe culminated in the violent attack.
Previous Complaints and Police Action
Investigators revealed that Deepshikha had previously approached the Patan police station in Jabalpur with a complaint against Sushil. Both parties were called in, and the matter was closed after an apology and compromise. This prior incident highlights the ongoing tensions that were not fully resolved.
In response to the shooting, multiple police teams have been formed to arrest the accused. Raids are currently underway in Panagar and other locations in and around Jabalpur, as well as at the houses of relatives and acquaintances. All evidence collected from the crime scene is being thoroughly examined to build a strong case.
Family Protests and Demands for Justice
Meanwhile, Deepshikha's family members staged a brief road blockade on the Sagar–Kanpur highway on Thursday, demanding the immediate arrest of the accused and strict legal action. Police intervened and dispersed the protest after engaging in talks with the family, assuring them of swift justice.
This incident has raised concerns about safety and the handling of such cases, with the community calling for increased vigilance and support for victims of harassment. The police continue their efforts to apprehend Sushil Athya and bring him to justice for this heinous crime.
