A minor dispute escalated into a fatal incident in Bhopal’s Ashoka Garden area, where a 35-year-old tea vendor was allegedly stabbed to death following a heated argument late Sunday night.
The victim, identified as Vijay Mewara, a resident of Subhash Colony, ran a tea stall in the Ashoka Garden and Kolar areas. According to police, the incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. when Vijay had gone to Pragati Nagar to drop off his employees after closing his establishment.
Police said the accused, identified as Asif alias Bam, was present at the location along with his associates. The group reportedly knew Vijay’s employees. An argument broke out when the accused allegedly pressured the workers to accompany them, but they refused due to work commitments. This led to rising tensions at the scene.
Witnesses said Vijay intervened in an attempt to defuse the situation and asked the accused to leave, addressing him as “son.” Investigators believe this remark triggered anger in the main accused, further escalating the confrontation.
According to police, the situation quickly turned violent. The accused allegedly attacked Vijay with a sharp weapon, while others present also assaulted him. He sustained severe injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead.
Following the incident, the accused fled the scene, leading to panic in the area. As news spread, local residents gathered in protest, demanding swift action. Members of several groups also assembled at the Ashoka Garden police station, calling for strict measures against those involved.
Police have confirmed that two suspects have been arrested, while the main accused remains absconding. Multiple teams have been deployed to trace him, and raids are being conducted at suspected locations. Authorities have also announced a reward of ₹30,000 for information leading to his arrest.
Security has been tightened in the area to prevent further unrest. Officials stated that the situation is under control and assured that all those involved will face strict legal action.
