Villager Killed and Family Injured in Chhattisgarh as House Set Ablaze

A violent clash erupted in Loharidih village on Sunday, resulting in the death of a man and injuries to his family members. The attack also left several policemen injured after stones were hurled at them by the assailants.

According to police officials, the incident began when a group of villagers set fire to the house of Raghunath Sahu, suspecting him of murdering another villager, Kachru Sahu. Kachru Sahu was found hanging from a tree in Bijatola village in Balaghat district, Madhya Pradesh . Preliminary investigations suggest that Kachru's death might be a case of suicide.

Inspector General of Police (Rajnandgaon range) Deepak Jha confirmed to PTI, "Kachru Sahu had gone to Bijatola on Saturday for an unknown reason after informing his family members that he would return at night. After being alerted about his death this morning, we communicated to Balaghat police to conduct an appropriate investigation. Prima facie it seems to be a case of suicide."

The situation escalated when police informed Kachru's family about his death. Later, around 11:30 am, authorities received reports of a large-scale attack on Raghunath Sahu and his family. Villagers attacked the Sahu residence and set it ablaze. Despite resistance and stone pelting, police managed to rescue three members of the Sahu family. However, Raghunath Sahu was initially reported missing.

"Among the rescued persons, Raghunath Sahu's wife and another family member were admitted to a hospital for injuries," Jha added. A charred body, believed to be Raghunath Sahu's, was later recovered from the burnt house. DNA testing will be conducted to confirm the identity of the deceased.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear. Some villagers alleged that Raghunath was targeted due to disputes over land encroachment. A case has been registered, and investigations are ongoing.

"40 villagers have been taken into custody in connection with the violence and are being interrogated," Jha said. In response to the violence, approximately 400 policemen have been deployed in the village to restore order and ensure the safety of residents.

The situation in Loharidih is currently under control, with authorities working to determine the exact cause of the violent confrontation.