Dhaba clash turns deadly in MP’s Ujjain, two killed in rivalry linked to Karni Sena

Ujjain (MP), Aug 27 (IANS) An old rivalry between two groups linked to the Karni Sena turned deadly when two men were killed in a late-night clash at a dhaba in Madhya Pradesh’s Ujjain, the police said on Thursday.

The violence broke out around Wednesday mid-night at Lucky Darbar Dhaba in Kanipura area following an argument between the two sides.

According to police, the situation escalated after one side allegedly called for reinforcements. Around 12 to 15 armed men reportedly arrived at the spot and attacked members of the rival group with knives and swords.

Rahul Darbar alias Vijay Pratap, 42, a resident of Neemanwasa, and Jitendra Pawar, 35, who operated the dhaba and lived in Undasa.

Rahul suffered serious injuries in the attack and was taken to a private hospital, where he died during treatment. Jitendra’s body was later found in bushes a short distance from the dhaba, the police said.

The sequence of events is being reconstructed on the basis of statements of the injured and others present at the spot.

Rahul’s maternal uncle Hemant Singh Chauhan told the police that Rahul’s younger brother had received a call from one Shakti Singh around 11 pm, warning him to “save your brother if you can”.

The family members subsequently reached the dhaba and found Rahul injured.

Chauhan said Rahul and Shakti had gone to the dhaba after a previous dispute involving Rahul and Arpit over a child was settled.

During their stay, an argument allegedly broke out after which Shakti allegedly slapped Rahul.

Rahul allegedly retaliated by hitting him on the head with a spoon.

Another injured man, Shravan, told police that the quarrel was initially brought under control. Shakti later allegedly called Sonu Banjara and summoned several associates.

The police said Shakti also suffered injuries in the clash and is undergoing treatment. Arpit, Mohan Bana and Sonu Banjara are absconding.

The Chimanganj police are investigating the alleged old rivalry, the immediate trigger for the violence and the individual roles of those involved.

Chimanganj police station SHO Vivek Kanodia said, “We are investigating all aspects of the incident, including the motive and the role of each accused, and appropriate action will be taken on the basis of the evidence.”

–IANS

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