Investigations have uncovered harrowing details surrounding recent murders and potential corruption tied to familial and gang dynamics in India.
Two individuals have been arrested for the murder of 29-year-old Manjeet Mishra, who was shot on January 28, 2024, just after sending his wife, Megha, back to her family home amid rising tensions between them. According to police reports, one of the accused, Sachin Rathor, is the victim's brother-in-law and allegedly hired shooters to eliminate his sister's husband.
Authorities arrested Rathor, 32, of Karkardooma village, and Praveen Pal, 29, also known as Tilke from Baghpat, on Saturday. They are currently seeking the two absconding shooters. The police found Mishra's body near the D-Park intersection, highlighting how deeply personal grievances can bleed over to violent acts.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Shiv Shakti Avasthi explained, “Their relationship soured after Manjeet's father, Pramod Mishra, died in a road accident just 15 days after the marriage. Following this, Manjeet's family began to speak ill of Megha, leading to frequent disputes.”
Records show the couple's disputes escalated significantly post their marriage on January 28, 2024, with police having fielded complaints from both sides. On August 19, 2024, Manjeet sought protection at the Indirapuram police station, expressing significant safety concerns. Meanwhile, Sachin had complained about the situation, hinting at underlying tensions.
According to DCP Avasthi, Sachin paid Praveen Rs 5 lakh last December and agreed to pay Rs 15 lakh for the murder. Praveen, with connections to the shooters, arranged accommodations for them at an OYO Hotel, setting the grim stage for the attack.
Just days after, the murder of Congress leader Hyder Ali on February 23, 2025, sent shockwaves through Central Bengaluru. The local politician, known for his association with Congress MLA NA Harris, was fatally attacked as he rode home from a bar around 1 AM. Ali was reportedly ambushed by assailants who had followed him before cornering and hacking him to death.
DCP Shekhar H Tekkannavar stated, “Haider Ali, a ’rowdy-sheeter’ with 11 criminal cases, was attacked and killed between 1 to 1:30 AM. He was ambushed by unknown assailants, intercepted, and assaulted with weapons.” His driver, who was with him during the attack, sustained only minor injuries, highlighting the sheer brutality of the gang-related violence.
The circumstances surrounding both murders reflect not only personal vendettas but also the broader issue of gang rivalries and violence within communities. Following Ali's murder, supporters reportedly gathered near the hospital, wielding machetes and swords, which created significant unrest and raised concerns about public safety. This kind of retaliation could be viewed as indicative of tensions simmering within the underbelly of political relationships and criminal associations.
Investigations are currently underway for both cases, with police actively pursuing leads to apprehend the assailants involved. The police department has registered murder cases against the accused and is exploring connections between the incidents and potential wider gang activity. The authorities are working round the clock to quell fears within the community and restore order.
These recent events expose the persistent challenges of crime and intimidation faced by residents, particularly when personal allegiances intertwine all too closely with gang activity. The question of safety looms large over communities grappling with the fallout and ramifications of these violent acts.