A former functionary of the BJP’s youth wing, Venkatesh, was brutally killed in a suspected case of personal enmity in Gangavati taluk on Wednesday, police said. The incident occurred in the early hours while Venkatesh was returning home on a two-wheeler with a friend after visiting another acquaintance.
According to police, a group of five to six assailants in a car intercepted Venkatesh and his companion. The attackers wielded machetes, striking Venkatesh, while his friend managed to escape unhurt. After the assault, the gang fled the scene in their vehicle.
Venkatesh was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries during treatment, a senior police official confirmed.
Investigation underway
Based on a complaint from the victim’s family, the Gangavati police registered a murder case. Four of the accused have been taken into custody, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects, according to District Superintendent of Police Ram L Arasiddi.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the killing may have been motivated by personal rivalry, though authorities are probing all angles. Police officials are examining CCTV footage and witness accounts to reconstruct the events leading up to the attack.
Political reactions
The news of Venkatesh’s death sent shockwaves through the local political community. BJP State President B Y Vijayendra expressed deep grief over the incident. In a post on X, he said, “I express my condolences on his demise. May Venkatesh’s soul rest in eternal peace, and may God grant his family the strength to bear this grief.”
Party colleagues described Venkatesh as an active youth leader who had contributed to local party initiatives and community activities. The incident has sparked calls for heightened security measures for political functionaries in the district.
Community response
Locals expressed shock over the brutal nature of the attack and extended support to the victim’s family. Neighbourhoods in Gangavati reported a tense atmosphere, with residents urging authorities to expedite the investigation and ensure justice is served.
Law enforcement measures
The police have intensified patrols and monitoring in the taluk and are coordinating with neighbouring districts to track down the remaining suspects. Investigators are also questioning acquaintances and witnesses to determine whether the attack had pre-planned elements or was a spontaneous act of violence.
Authorities have appealed to the public to provide any information that could aid the investigation. They also reiterated that political differences should not escalate into violent confrontations and urged communities to maintain peace.
Conclusion
The killing of Venkatesh has once again highlighted the risks faced by political activists at the grassroots level. With four suspects already in custody, police efforts continue to ensure that the remaining culprits are brought to justice, and the incident serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and conflict resolution within political spheres.