On Sunday, tragedy struck in Bahadurgarh near Delhi as Nafe Singh Rathee, the President of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) in Haryana, was brutally killed in a shocking assault. Unidentified assailants opened fire on Rathee’s SUV, leaving him with severe injuries to his neck, stomach, spine, and thigh. Despite efforts by medical professionals, Rathee succumbed to his injuries due to heavy blood loss. Additionally, three private gunmen hired for Rathee’s security and a party worker lost their lives in the attack.
Rathee, who had previously served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Bahadurgarh in 1996 and 2005, was a prominent figure in Haryana politics. The Haryana Government has taken swift action, entrusting the investigation to the Special Task Force.
Calls for CBI Probe and Political Response
In response to the heinous crime, Haryana’s Home Minister, Anil Vij, declared during Assembly proceedings that a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into Rathee’s killing would be initiated. The announcement came amidst growing demands for justice and accountability.
Meanwhile, senior INLD leader Abhay Singh Chautala joined other party members in protest at Rathee’s residence, highlighting the deep shock and outrage within the political community.
Legal Actions and Allegations
Haryana Police wasted no time in taking legal action, naming several individuals in the FIR, including former MLA Naresh Kaushik and others. The FIR also mentions five unnamed suspects, as investigations continue to unfold.
The incident has sparked a wave of criticism, with Congress MP Deepender Hooda condemning what he termed as “Jungle Raj” in Haryana. Hooda raised concerns over the deteriorating law and order situation, demanding accountability from the state government.
Public Outcry and Family’s Stand
The assassination has sent shockwaves across Haryana, prompting protests and demands for justice. Supporters of Rathee gathered in Jhajjar, blocking roads and calling for the immediate arrest of the perpetrators.
In a bold move, Rathee’s family refused to perform his last rites until the accused mentioned in the FIR were apprehended. Jitendra Rathee, Nafe Singh Rathee’s son, asserted that his father had repeatedly sought security due to perceived threats, alleging the involvement of local politicians in the tragic incident.
Investigation and Surveillance Footage
Authorities have intensified efforts to apprehend the culprits, with Deputy Superintendent of Police Shamsher Singh confirming the deployment of multiple investigative teams. Surveillance footage capturing the assailants trailing Rathee’s vehicle has emerged, providing crucial leads for law enforcement.
Haryana Police has taken significant steps, naming four individuals in the FIR and invoking various sections of the Indian Penal Code and Arms Act. However, the family’s refusal to conduct funeral rites until justice is served underscores the gravity of the situation and the imperative for swift and thorough investigation.
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