Garhwa — A minor dispute over the alleged poisoning of goats escalated into a deadly clash between two families in Jharkhand’s Garhwa district, leaving one person dead and four others seriously injured, police said on Tuesday.
The incident occurred in Dubiyathi Tola of Hesatu village under the Bargarh police station limits in Tehri Panchayat. The deceased has been identified as 55-year-old Suryadev Yadav.
According to local residents, tensions flared after three goats belonging to Suryadev Yadav allegedly died due to suspected poisoning. His family accused Ramkishun Yadav, also known as Dubai Yadav, and his wife Kawalia Devi of poisoning the animals.
Following the deaths, Suryadev Yadav reportedly approached the Panchayat head, Vinko Toppo, seeking intervention in the matter. It is alleged that while he was taking photographs of the dead goats on his mobile phone as evidence, members of the accused family confronted and attacked him.
Police said around 11 individuals, including Ramkishun Yadav, Raju Yadav, Santosh Yadav and Kawalia Devi, allegedly assaulted Suryadev Yadav with sticks and a sickle. He sustained grievous injuries and died on the spot.
During the clash, his sons Mahesh Yadav and Ganesh Yadav were also severely injured. Two other individuals were reported injured in the violence.
The injured were initially taken to a nearby health facility. Due to the seriousness of his condition, Mahesh Yadav was later referred to the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Ranchi for advanced treatment.
Upon receiving information, Bargarh police reached the village, brought the situation under control and sent the body for post-mortem examination. Security has been tightened in the area to prevent further escalation.
Ganesh Yadav lodged a written complaint at the police station, demanding strict action against those involved. Police have registered a case of murder and attempt to murder against 11 named accused.
The Sub-Divisional Police Officer said raids are being conducted to arrest the accused and that a detailed investigation is underway.
With inputs from IANS