7 killed in 72 hours: Raipur killing spree boosts BJP’s criminality in Chhattisgarh

The surge in violent crime has drawn attention to the law and order situation in BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh. In the last 72 hours alone, there have been seven murders in the capital Raipur, prompting the opposition Congress to question the state’s security apparatus.

The latest crime wave has left Chhattisgarh reeling and calls for Home Minister Vijay Sharma’s resignation are growing. The Congress has targeted the Vishnu Deo Sai government for its “failure” to maintain law and order in the state since it came to power ten months ago.

Timeline of recent high-profile crimes in Chhattisgarh:

Murder at RAIPUR

In Raipur, seven murders in three days have shaken the city’s residents. The victims of violent attacks were various victims: from a 70-year-old man to young couples.

Raipur SSP Santosh Singh initiated a damage control response, mobilizing resources to restore a sense of security. Police have made six arrests in connection with a series of murders, most of which were committed with sharp weapons.

Incidents of knife-wielding have also increased, further worrying the community.

THE VIOLENCES OF THE PROTEST AND SET THE BALODA BAZAR ON FIRE

In June, one of the most active protests took place in Chhattisgarh, when about 8,000-9,000 people gathered at Baloda Bazar to collect and set fire to the officeburning about 100 cars.

The protest was sparked by complaints from the Satnami community, which demanded a CBI probe into the desecration of their religious symbol, Jaitkham. Tensions rose when their demands went unanswered.

More than 25 policemen were injured during the protest, prompting authorities to impose Section 144 in the area.

DEATH UNDER THE VISCUSS IN KAVARDHA

On September 15, 27-year-old Prashant Sahu died in police custody in Kaward after he was allegedly tortured. Sahu was arrested in connection with the death of Kachru Sahu, a murder suspect in Madhya Pradesh. His family and Congress claim he was brutally assaulted while in prison.

In response, the state removed the Collector of Kawardha, the Superintendent of Police and 23 other officials.

DOUBLE MURDER IN SURAJPUR

Less than a month after the Kaward incident, Surajpur was rocked by the brutal killing of the wife and daughter of Superintendent of Police Talib Sheikh. The accused, Kuldeep Sahu, allegedly attacked the victims with a sword, leaving their bodies in a nearby field.

After the double murder, angry residents set Sahu’s property on fire, adding to tensions in the area. In response, the state government removed the Surajpur Superintendent of Police.

ANOTHER CURRENT DEATH IN BALRAMPUR

On October 24, another death in prisons added to the woes of the state. Guruchand Mandal, who had approached the Balrampur police to report his wife missing, was taken into custody as a suspect and later found dead in the bathroom of the police station.

Authorities said he committed suicide; however, his family and local residents claimed it was foul play. Tensions rose after the incident as protesters ransacked the police station, leading to a police crackdown.