A long-running dispute over sand mining operations in Chhattisgarh's Koriya district turned deadly after BJP leader Bharat Singh, popularly known as Lalla Singh, and two others were allegedly burnt alive inside an SUV.
The gruesome incident took place late Tuesday night in Naugain village under Sonhat police station limits and has sent shockwaves across the state.
Police have arrested four accused and launched a search operation for others allegedly involved in the attack.
SUV allegedly trapped between trucks before being set on fire
According to NDTV, Bharat Singh had travelled to the area to negotiate a settlement linked to an ongoing sand quarry dispute. However, they allege he was ambushed.
Reports suggest that the Fortuner SUV carrying Bharat Singh and others was surrounded by trucks that blocked its movement from both sides. The vehicle was then allegedly doused with petrol and set on fire.
Bharat Singh died on the spot.
Virendra Singh later succumbed to injuries during treatment, while Nagendra Singh, a teacher and Bharat Singh's cousin, also lost his life in the attack.
Another victim, Mayank Singh, remains critically injured and is undergoing treatment at Apollo Hospital in Bilaspur.
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Mining rivalry had been escalating for months
According to NDTV, the killings were the culmination of a prolonged battle over sand transportation rights and alleged illegal collections linked to quarry operations in the region.
The dispute reportedly involved Bharat Singh's group and members of the Tripathi family, who own several tipper trucks used in sand transport operations.
Police say tensions had been escalating over control of mining activities in Sonhat and nearby areas.
Authorities have registered a case against nine named individuals under charges including murder and attempted murder.
Additional Superintendent of Police Suresha Chaubey said four suspects have been arrested while efforts are underway to trace the remaining accused.
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Political outrage grows as family demands CBI probe
The incident has sparked strong political reactions across party lines.
The victim's family has demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation inquiry, alleging the killings were carefully planned and not the result of a sudden altercation.
According to NDTV, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said arrests have already been made and assured that those responsible would face strict action.
Local MLA Bhaiyalal Rajwade described the incident as unprecedented in Koriya district, while former MLA Gulab Kamro called for exemplary punishment for the accused.
Heavy police deployment continues in the area as authorities attempt to prevent any further escalation.
