Nafe Singh Rathi, the Haryana unit president of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and a former MLA, met a tragic end on Sunday evening when unidentified gunmen ambushed his SUV in Jhajjar district. Another party leader traveling with him also lost his life, while two others sustained critical injuries.
Rathi and his companions were inside the vehicle when assailants in a car opened fire before swiftly fleeing the scene. The injured were promptly taken to the nearby Brahm Shakti Sanjivani Hospital for medical attention, but Rathi, unfortunately, succumbed to his injuries upon arrival.
Rakesh Sihag, head of the INLD’s media cell, confirmed Rathi’s demise in the shootout. Rathi had previously served as an MLA from Bahadurgarh, where the attack occurred. Following the shocking incident, state police heightened vigilance, deploying multiple teams to gather evidence and investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack. CCTV footage from nearby areas is being scrutinized to trace the attackers’ entry and escape routes.
Expressing condolences, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar vowed swift action, asserting, “Not a single culprit involved in this case will be spared.” Home Minister Anil Vij issued instructions to expedite investigations.
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The attack is suspected to be orchestrated by gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and his associate Kala Jathedi, allegedly stemming from a property dispute. Opposition parties criticized the state government, citing a breakdown in law and order. INLD leader Abhay Chautala revealed that Rathi had previously requested security, which was not provided despite written requests.
The Congress and Aam Aadmi Party also condemned the incident, attributing it to the Khattar administration’s failure.
Rathi, a two-time legislator, also held the position of state president of the Haryana Former Legislators Association. He was involved in various political endeavors, including a bid for Lok Sabha elections from the Rohtak constituency. Additionally, he served as Chairman of the Bahadurgarh Municipal Council.
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In a separate controversy, Rathi faced allegations of abetment in the suicide case of Jagdish Rathi, the son of former Haryana minister Mange Ram Rathi. He, along with his nephew Sonu, was accused of harassment. However, Rathi secured anticipatory bail from the High Court on January 24, 2023.
