The Delhi Police have launched an intensive operation, forming multiple specialized teams to track down the remaining suspects in the shocking murder of Yogendra Singh, a 35-year-old sevadar at the Kalkaji temple. The tragic incident, which has left the temple community reeling, occurred on Friday night when Singh was allegedly beaten to death over a dispute regarding the distribution of prasad.
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southeast) Hemant Tiwari, five individuals have already been apprehended, including the prime accused, Atul Pandey, who was detained at the scene-By locals. The other four, identified as Mohan alias Bhura, his cousin Kuldeep Bidhuri, Nitin Pandey, and his father Anil Kumar, were arrested on Saturday. "We are working tirelessly to apprehend the remaining suspects," Tiwari stated, emphasizing that the police are analyzing CCTV footage, technical evidence, and conducting extensive interviews to ensure swift justice.
The brutal attack reportedly stemmed from Singh’s refusal to provide chunni prasad, as the temple’s stock had run out. Witnesses say the group, enraged by the denial, assaulted Singh with sticks and fists, leading to his tragic death. Singh, a dedicated sevadar who served the temple for nearly 15 years, leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife and a six-year-old daughter with a disability.
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Singh’s younger brother, Kaushal, expressed profound grief, describing the family’s devastation. “Yogendra was the backbone of our family, working tirelessly to provide for his wife and children. His daughter’s medical treatment costs over Rs 1 lakh, and now we’re left struggling. We urge the government to provide financial aid to ensure her care continues,” Kaushal said. He recounted how Yogendra had politely explained the unavailability of prasad, only to be met with unimaginable violence. “They dragged him out and beat him mercilessly. We demand the strictest punishment for all involved so no one else suffers like this,” he added.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the temple’s sevadar community, with many expressing fear for their safety. “We serve with devotion, but this brutality has left us shaken. How can we feel safe now?” said Ramakant Sharma, a fellow sevadar. Others echoed his concerns, calling for enhanced security measures to protect temple staff and prevent such tragedies in the future.
The Kalkaji temple, a revered spiritual site, has become a focal point of grief and outrage as the investigation continues. Police have vowed to leave no stone unturned, with Tiwari assuring that all remaining accused will be brought to justice soon. As the community mourns, there is a collective call for accountability and reforms to ensure the safety of those who dedicate their lives to serving others.
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