An Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) jawan, Ajay Yadav, aged 25, was shot dead in cold blood by a local youth following a trivial argument that escalated into violence in Jharkhand’s Bokaro district on Monday evening. The incident took place in Yaduvansh Nagar under Adarsh Colony, within the Chas police station area, where Yadav lived with his family. Posted in Giridih district, the jawan had returned home on leave to observe Chhath Puja, a significant festival marked by communal gatherings and prayers along riverbanks and public spaces in the region.

Chas Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Praveen Kumar Singh stated that the confrontation began between Yadav and the accused, Balram Tiwari, over a minor issue during neighborhood interactions. The verbal dispute quickly turned physical, with both individuals exchanging blows before Tiwari temporarily left the scene in anger. Witnesses reported that he returned within minutes carrying an unlicensed pistol and fired three rounds at point-blank range into Yadav’s abdomen, causing immediate collapse and severe internal injuries.

The critically wounded jawan was rushed to Bokaro General Hospital (BGH) by family members and bystanders amid chaos and panic. Medical examiners declared him brought dead on arrival, attributing the fatality to massive blood loss, organ perforation, and hemorrhagic shock. An FIR has been filed under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for murder and arms violations, with forensic teams securing the crime scene, collecting bullet casings, and analyzing potential evidence such as fingerprints on the weapon.

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Police have launched an extensive operation to apprehend Tiwari and any accomplices, conducting raids across Chas, Bokaro Steel City, and surrounding areas while reviewing CCTV footage and communication records. The investigation is exploring whether the dispute had deeper roots or involved external factors, including the illegal supply of firearms. The IRB community has expressed grief and demanded stringent action, prompting assurances from Bokaro SSP for a time-bound resolution.

Yadav’s body has been sent for postmortem examination under official protocols, and the district administration is providing ex-gratia relief and support to the bereaved family. The incident has cast a shadow over Chhath Puja celebrations, highlighting concerns over public safety and the need for stricter controls on weapon proliferation in civilian areas. Authorities urge residents to assist in the probe as efforts continue to ensure justice for the fallen jawan.

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