Notorious Chambal dacoit Jagan Gurjar was allegedly murdered inside a high-security prison in Ajmer, Rajasthan, on Monday after being strangled by his cellmate, police said. Gurjar, who was facing more than 100 criminal cases, was found dead inside the jail, prompting authorities to launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing. Police have stated that preliminary findings indicate the incident occurred inside the prison cell and that further details will emerge after the post-mortem examination.

Ajmer Superintendent of Police Harsh Vardhan Agarwalla said initial investigations suggest Gurjar was strangled using a gamcha, a traditional cotton towel commonly used in India. According to the officer, there were no visible external injuries on the body apart from strangulation marks around the neck. Police said the preliminary assessment points to death by strangulation, although the exact cause will be confirmed after forensic and medical examinations.

The accused has been identified as Vishnu Jat, an inmate lodged in the same prison in connection with a 2023 murder case. Investigators are questioning him to determine the sequence of events that led to the alleged killing. Authorities have not disclosed whether the accused has formally confessed, but officials said the investigation is focused on reconstructing the incident based on evidence, witness statements and prison records.

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Police said there is no immediate indication that the murder was linked to gang rivalry or organised criminal activity. Instead, initial findings suggest the incident may have stemmed from a minor altercation between the two inmates that escalated into violence. Investigators are examining CCTV footage, prison surveillance records and statements from jail staff and other inmates to establish the exact motive and timeline of the incident.

Jagan Gurjar was a well-known figure associated with the Chambal region and had been facing numerous criminal cases over the years, including charges related to serious offences. His arrest had been considered a significant achievement for law enforcement agencies, and he had been lodged in the high-security prison while several criminal proceedings against him were pending. The incident has raised fresh concerns about security arrangements inside correctional facilities housing high-risk inmates.

Authorities have initiated a detailed investigation into the alleged murder and are also examining whether there were any lapses in prison security that allowed the incident to occur. Officials said action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry, while the post-mortem report and forensic evidence are expected to provide greater clarity on the circumstances surrounding Gurjar's death.

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