Mehsi: A young man was brutally murdered and two others, including his brother and cousin, were seriously injured during a Muharram procession in Kankatti market under Kothiya Hareram Panchayat, Mehsi police station limits, on Sunday evening. The attack, allegedly stemming from an old enmity, has sparked outrage and fear in the region.
The deceased has been identified as Ajay Kumar Rai, a resident of Amwa village. He was watching the Tajia procession with his brother Dhananjay Kumar and cousin Naval Kishore Rai, when a youth brandishing a sword attacked them during a stunt performance.
According to eyewitnesses and family members, the three were standing among the crowd watching the Muharram procession when the accused suddenly lunged at Ajay with a sword. Dhananjay and Naval, who tried to intervene, were also injured in the attack. Ajay succumbed to his injuries on the spot, while Naval was rushed to Muzaffarpur in critical condition. Dhananjay sustained a severe nose injury.
Old Rivalry Behind the Attack
Dhananjay Kumar alleged that the attack was linked to a panchayat election dispute involving their cousin Rajesh Rai and a man named Nizamuddin. “This is not a random act. There has been tension since the elections. Today, it turned deadly,” Dhananjay told police.
Superintendent of Police Swarn Prabhat confirmed that the incident was the result of an ongoing feud between two groups. “Ajay Rai died in the attack. Two others from his family were injured. Two suspects have been detained and are being interrogated,” he said. Police have launched raids to arrest the remaining accused. A previous FIR had been registered regarding the rivalry about 15 days ago.
Heavy Police Deployment, Top Officials at the Scene
District Magistrate Saurabh Jorwal and SP Swarn Prabhat immediately reached Mehsi after receiving news of the incident. Champaran Range DIG Har Kishore Rai and Pipra MLA Shyamababu Prasad Yadav also visited the grieving family.
The DIG spoke with Dhananjay Kumar and assured strict action. Emotional scenes unfolded as the family mourned Ajay’s loss. “He had no enmity with anyone. He just went to watch the procession,” cried a female relative.
Police forces have been deployed in large numbers in the area to maintain law and order. Authorities are urging calm while the investigation continues.
