MP: ASI opens fire in land dispute; one dead, two injured

Rajgarh, Aug 17 (IANS) The Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh was rocked by violence after a minor land dispute in Bilalkhedi village spiraled into bloodshed.

During a heated altercation between two groups on Sunday, Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Dilip Prajapati, posted in Shajapur district, allegedly opened fire with his licensed 12-bore gun.

One person was killed instantly, while two others sustained critical injuries.

According to reports, the dispute stemmed from long-standing tensions over land measurement.

On Sunday afternoon, tempers flared as both sides clashed, hurling abuses and engaging in a physical scuffle.

Amid the chaos, Prajapati fired shots, one of which struck a man in the chest, killing him on the spot.

The injured were rushed to a Primary Health Centre, a police source said, before being referred to Shujalpur hospital due to their grave condition.

The deceased’s body has been sent for post-mortem examination.

The incident caused panic in the village, with residents fleeing in fear.

A video recorded by a bystander captured the firing and the ensuing chaos.

The footage quickly went viral on social media, sparking outrage and drawing sharp attention from the police department.

Upon receiving information, police officials from the Talen police station reached the site and detained Prajapati as he attempted to escape on a motorcycle, police sources said.

His licensed firearm was seized, and a case has been registered against him under charges of murder and attempted murder.

Police officials confirmed that the accused is being interrogated to ascertain whether he was directly involved in the dispute or had intervened for other reasons.

Tension continues to grip Bilalkhedi village, with police forces deployed in and around the area to prevent further escalation.

The family of the deceased remains inconsolable, while relatives of the injured have demanded strict action against the ASI.

Taking cognisance of the incident, Rajgarh Superintendent of Police Amit Tolani has ordered a thorough investigation.

Preliminary findings suggest the dispute was rooted in land measurement disagreements, though authorities are probing whether Prajapati had any personal stake in the matter.

The shocking episode has raised serious questions about law enforcement officers misusing licensed weapons in personal disputes, leaving the community shaken and demanding accountability.

–IANS

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