World · India Bureau
Priest Remains Fugitive in Double Murder Case; 25,000 Rupees Bounty Declared
Police in Uttar Pradesh have declared a 25,000 rupee reward for the capture of a temple priest accused of murdering two youths and burying their bodies in a temple compound. The suspect remains at large as authorities expand their search across five states.
LSN India ·
The main accused in a double homicide case in Bagpat district's Lahchaud village remains absconding, prompting law enforcement to intensify efforts to locate him. Mahant Nareshhnath, a temple priest, is accused of killing two young men and burying their remains near the havan kund, or sacrificial fire pit, within temple premises.
In response to the continued evasion, police have announced a cash reward of 25,000 rupees for information leading to the arrest of the fugitive priest. The bounty underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case and aims to encourage public cooperation in apprehending the suspect.
Investigation teams have expanded their search operations across state boundaries, with police forces combing through Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and three other states in pursuit of the accused. The multi-state manhunt reflects concerns that the fugitive may have fled the region to evade arrest.
Details regarding the circumstances of the murders and how the bodies came to be discovered remain under investigation. The case has drawn attention to security lapses at religious institutions and raised questions about oversight in temple management practices.