Rajkot: Murder Sparks Dalit Outcry, Tensions Rise

A murder in Rajkot on Monday night escalated into a tense law and order situation, drawing significant protests from the Dalit community outside Civil Hospital. The victim, identified as 32-year-old Bhavesh Vanvi, was allegedly kidnapped in the Raiyadhar area on Sunday night and subsequently found near Sheetal Park.

Vanvi was transported to Civil Hospital in critical condition and passed away in the early hours of Monday. News of his death prompted a large demonstration, with community members refusing to claim the body for funeral rites and blocking the hospital square. They chanted slogans and demanded the immediate apprehension of those responsible for his death.

Police forces were deployed to manage the unrest, leading to the detention of 20 individuals, including community leaders, for charges of rioting and obstructing public servants. An additional complaint was filed after an assistant sub-inspector was allegedly assaulted while on duty during the protest.

Authorities have apprehended three individuals—Ravi Jogarana, Sagar Jogarana, and Gopal Jogarana—in connection with the murder. However, the primary accused, Hamir Jogarana, along with other identified accomplices, remains at large, and police are actively pursuing their capture.

Initial inquiries point to a personal dispute as the motive. Investigators revealed that Vanvi was reportedly in a relationship, and tensions reportedly surfaced after Vanvi discovered communication between his partner and the prime accused, Hamir, on Instagram. Both parties involved have prior criminal records, with Vanvi previously facing charges for prohibition, assault, and rioting, and Hamir having a past case under the Arms Act.