Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Dec 15: A long-simmering family feud is believed to be behind the brutal killing of a night watchman in Murshidabad district, with police suspecting the murder to be an act of revenge linked to a crime committed nearly a decade ago.
The incident occurred around midnight on Sunday near the ash pond of NTPC’s Kendua facility, under the jurisdiction of Farakka police station. The victim, 48-year-old Alam Sheikh, was employed as a night guard at the site and was attacked while heading to work.
Police said Alam Sheikh was assaulted with sharp weapons and died on the spot. The main suspect has been identified as Panna Sheikh, who is believed to have targeted the victim over his alleged role in the killing of Panna’s brother in 2015. No arrests had been made as of Monday morning, and a manhunt is underway.
According to investigators, a violent dispute in Jorapukuria village nearly ten years ago led to the death of Toufiq Sheikh, Panna’s younger brother. Alam Sheikh, along with others, was accused of forcibly dragging Toufiq out of his home and beating him to death. He was arrested at the time and later released on bail after spending a significant period in custody.
Following his brother’s death, Panna Sheikh reportedly fled the village, fearing reprisals. Police said he returned to Jorapukuria only a few months ago after years in hiding. Investigators believe the attack on Sunday night was carried out shortly after his return.
Alam Sheikh’s body was recovered from the scene and sent to Jangipur Sub-Divisional Hospital for a post-mortem examination. A murder case has been registered, and police say preliminary findings point to a revenge killing.
The victim’s elder brother, Nabi Sheikh, a local Trinamool Congress leader, said the family had been anxious since Panna’s return. He claimed they feared violence but were unprepared for such a brutal outcome.
In the aftermath of the killing, the area has remained tense. Police have increased security and deployed additional personnel to prevent any further flare-up as the search for the accused continues.