Raichur: In an incident reported from Karnataka’s Raichur, a man who had allegedly filed a complaint with the Lokayukta regarding misuse of Waqf Board development funds was brutally attacked by a large group of assailants in broad daylight near the Tahsildar’s office.
The victim, identified as Sanaulla, sustained serious injuries after he and his associates were allegedly assaulted with knives, iron rods, stones and other sharp weapons by nearly 30 persons in what eyewitnesses described as a “movie-style” attack. The incident has triggered tension in the region and raised serious concerns over the safety of whistleblowers and complainants involved in corruption-related cases.
According to preliminary information, the dispute is linked to allegations of financial irregularities in development works undertaken at a mosque, graveyard and Eidgah ground in Talamari village of Raichur taluk. During the 2017-19 period, a total grant of nearly Rs 26 lakh had reportedly been released by the Minority Welfare Department and the Waqf Board for the development works.
However, Sanaulla had allegedly approached the Lokayukta, accusing certain persons of large-scale misuse and misappropriation of the funds sanctioned for the religious infrastructure projects. Following the complaint, a team of Lokayukta officials had recently visited the village and conducted an inquiry into the alleged irregularities.
Police sources said tensions escalated soon after the inquiry visit. The accused persons, allegedly angered by the complaint and the ongoing investigation, are said to have contacted Sanaulla under the pretext of holding compromise talks regarding the dispute.
The complainant was reportedly called near the Tahsildar’s office in Raichur city for discussions. During the meeting, a large group of men allegedly arrived in a planned manner and launched a sudden attack on Sanaulla and his associates.
Eyewitnesses stated that the attackers chased the victims on the road and assaulted them indiscriminately using knives, sharp-edged weapons, iron rods and stones. Panic gripped the busy locality as the violent assault unfolded in public view, forcing passersby and nearby shopkeepers to flee the area.
Sanaulla suffered multiple injuries all over his body and reportedly required around 24 stitches following the assault. He was initially rushed to a local hospital before being shifted to the OPEC Hospital in Raichur for advanced treatment.
Hospital sources said the victim is currently undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit under police security due to fears of further attacks. Some of his associates also sustained injuries during the incident, though their condition is said to be stable.
Following the attack, a case has been registered at the Sadar Bazar Police Station against more than 15 persons, including key accused identified as Ashu Patel, Nizam Patel and Irfan.
Police officials said investigations are underway to identify all the attackers involved in the incident. Authorities are also examining CCTV footage from the surrounding area and collecting statements from eyewitnesses to establish the sequence of events.
Meanwhile, in a fresh twist to the case, members from the opposite group have also filed a counter-complaint against Sanaulla and his associates, alleging assault and provocation from their side. Police have confirmed that both complaints are being investigated simultaneously.
The incident has sparked widespread discussion in Raichur district, with several local residents and activists demanding strict action against those responsible for the attack. Concerns have also been raised regarding the alleged misuse of Waqf development funds and the safety of individuals who come forward to report corruption-related allegations.
Police officials stated that security has been tightened in sensitive areas to prevent any untoward incidents and assured that legal action would be taken based on the outcome of the investigation.
