SIT Makes Key Arrest in Bhavnagar Farmer Assault Case
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the brutal assault on a farmer in Bhavnagar district has made a significant breakthrough with the arrest of Jayraj Ahir, son of renowned folk artist Maya Ahir. This development comes in connection with a case that had triggered widespread outrage among the Koli community in December 2025, highlighting the sensitivity and complexity of the investigation.
Details of the Violent Incident
The victim, Navneet Baladhiya (38), a farmer from Bagdana village in Mahuva taluka, was subjected to a vicious attack late on the night of December 29, 2025, at Monpar village. A group of men assaulted him, leading to immediate police action and subsequent public demands for justice.
Bhavnagar range inspector general of police (IGP) Gautam Parmar addressed the media on Saturday, providing updates on the investigation. Initially, Bagdana police had arrested eight accused based on Baladhiya's complaint. Recognizing the case's sensitivity, authorities constituted the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on January 5 to ensure a thorough and impartial probe.
Intensive Investigation Unfolds
Over the next 20 days, the SIT conducted an intensive investigation, securing a three-day remand of the eight original accused. During rigorous questioning, investigators uncovered evidence pointing to the involvement of additional individuals. This led to the arrests of Kanu Kamaliya, Sanjay Chavda, and Dinesh alias Dadu Solanki.
Investigators meticulously analyzed mobile phone locations and other technical data from the accused persons. On January 19, the SIT recorded a detailed statement from complainant Navneet Baladhiya and subsequently verified the testimonies of key witnesses. Based on these findings, Jayraj Ahir was summoned for questioning on January 21.
As the investigation progressed, two more accused—Uttam Bambhaniya and Ajay alias Moto Bhaliya—were also arrested for their alleged roles in the attack, demonstrating the SIT's commitment to leaving no stone unturned.
Motive and Evidence Revealed
IG Parmar revealed that on January 24, the SIT obtained concrete evidence establishing Jayraj Ahir's direct involvement in the assault, leading to his formal arrest. Initially, suspicions centered on bootleggers carrying out the attack as retaliation for tip-offs provided to authorities. However, the investigation uncovered that accused individuals Raju Bhammar and Naju Kamaliya, among others, were in contact with Jayraj.
It has now emerged that the assault was driven by personal hostility towards Baladhiya, involving both bootleggers and Jayraj Ahir. This revelation shifts the understanding of the case from purely criminal retaliation to a more complex interpersonal conflict.
Victim's Allegations and Legal Developments
From the outset, Navneet Baladhiya had alleged that police deliberately filed the case against unknown persons instead of naming the accused. He also claimed that sections related to abetment and criminal conspiracy were not initially invoked. In response to the SIT's findings, these crucial legal sections have now been added to the case, addressing the victim's concerns and strengthening the prosecution's stance.
The arrest of Jayraj Ahir marks a pivotal moment in this high-profile investigation, underscoring the SIT's dedication to uncovering the truth and delivering justice in a case that has captured public attention and sparked community outrage.
