In a shocking incident that unfolded on the evening of December 25, a former Congress councillor from Bikaner, Lakshmi Purohit, was brutally murdered by her ex-driver, Sameer Khan. The gruesome crime took place in the jurisdiction of the Naya Shahar police station, sending shockwaves through the community.
Lakshmi Purohit’s Disappearance
Lakshmi Purohit, who owned a beauty parlour near her residence, left her home on the evening of December 25th, ostensibly heading to the temple. However, when she failed to return, her husband, Rajesh Purohit, reported her missing to the police around 10 pm on the same night.
Discovery of the Body
As the police launched a search, the lifeless body of Lakshmi was discovered on Ganganagar Road. Rajesh Purohit was summoned to the scene to identify the victim, confirming that it was indeed his wife, Lakshmi.
Ex-Driver Turned Suspect
Rajesh Purohit, in his official complaint, identified Sameer Khan as a suspect in the heinous crime. He revealed that Khan, who had previously worked as Lakshmi’s driver six years ago, had been harboring intentions to marry her. The police investigation further unveiled a history of harassment and threats directed towards the Purohit family by Sameer Khan.
Past History of Harassment
Sameer Khan had initially been employed as a driver by Rajesh Purohit when he purchased a car six years ago. However, as reports of misbehavior and harassment surfaced, Khan was terminated from his position a few years ago. Despite the dismissal, Khan continued to harass the Purohit family, resorting to threats and visits to their residence.
False Suicide Attempt and Confession
Following the brutal murder, Sameer Khan attempted to stage a suicide, reaching PBS Hospital with injuries to his hand and head. However, when confronted by the police, he concocted a false story of being hit by a train. Unconvinced, the police took him into custody, leading to an interrogation where Khan eventually confessed to his involvement in the crime.
Motive Revealed
According to Superintendent of Police (SP) SM Tejashwini Gautam, Sameer Khan believed that Lakshmi would marry him. The fatal altercation between them occurred at Urmul Circle, culminating in Khan slitting Lakshmi’s throat with such force that the wound was approximately 2 inches deep. The murder transpired between 8 to 9 pm on December 25.
Ongoing Investigation
As the police continue their investigation, Sameer Khan remains in custody, and the murder weapon is yet to be recovered. The chilling incident has not only shaken the local community but has also raised concerns about the safety of individuals, particularly women, in the region.
Who is Lakshmi Purohit?
Lakshmi Purohit and her husband, Rajesh Purohit, originally from Nagaur, Rajasthan, had relocated to Bikaner. Lakshmi, who had previously served as a Congress councillor in Nagaur, shifted to Bikaner with her husband. Her political career, which had seen success in Nagaur, had diminished upon moving to Bikaner. The tragic incident has left the community in grief and ignited conversations about the need for enhanced security measures.
