CAF Jawan Killed by Colleague in Khairagarh Camp Shooting

A grave incident of fratricide unfolded in Chhattisgarh's Khairagarh district, where a constable of the Chhattisgarh Armed Force (CAF) fatally shot his fellow jawan inside the barrack camp during the intervening night of Sunday and Monday. The shooting occurred at the Ghagra base camp of the 17th CAF battalion, situated about 130 kilometers west of the state capital Raipur. This act of violence within the secure confines of a paramilitary facility has raised serious questions about internal discipline and mental health support for personnel deployed in sensitive areas.

The conflict originated from a heated exchange between the accused constable, Arvind Gautam, and the victim, Sonbir Jaat, who held the responsibility of mess commander. Authorities reported that the disagreement, which took place late at night over an undisclosed matter, rapidly intensified into a physical confrontation. Such escalations, though rare, highlight the potential pressures faced by security personnel in high-stress operational environments like those combating insurgency in Chhattisgarh.

In a deeply disturbing turn of events, Gautam, while performing patrol duty around midnight, allegedly retrieved his service-issued INSAS rifle and fired upon Jaat as he lay asleep in the barrack. The victim died instantaneously from the gunshot wounds, according to statements provided by Sub-Divisional Police Officer Mamta Ali Sharma. This premeditated action during a vulnerable moment has amplified the shock surrounding the incident.

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The sudden gunfire precipitated widespread panic and profound distress among the other personnel stationed at the base camp, shattering the sense of security and unity typically associated with armed forces units. The fact that both Gautam and Jaat originated from Uttar Pradesh adds a poignant dimension, as it involved individuals who shared regional ties yet ended in tragic confrontation within their professional setting.

Law enforcement acted swiftly, apprehending Arvind Gautam and placing him under custody for detailed interrogation to uncover the precise motives and sequence of events. This case brings renewed attention to the need for robust mechanisms addressing interpersonal conflicts, stress management, and psychological support within paramilitary forces operating in challenging and isolated postings across the country.

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