Two Sadhus Dragged, Murdered, and Dumped [Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan]

(Reported as seen)

On June 1, 2024, the bodies of two sadhus (Hindu saints) were found abandoned near the village of Navata in the Pacherikalan police station area, Jhunjhunu district, Rajasthan. The victims, aged between 40 and 45, were identified as 45-year-old Vishisht Giri and 42-year-old Gautam. They had sustained head injuries, indicating a violent assault. The bodies were discovered near the Haryana border, prompting a police investigation.

Vishisht Giri Maharaj, residing at Jawahar Giri Ashram in Bhiwani, and Gautam, a volunteer who had been living at the ashram for six months, were brutally attacked and killed. On the night of May 31, a group of individuals arrived at the Bhodan village ashram in a car. They dragged Vishisht Giri out and began assaulting him. Gautam, who intervened, was also attacked. Both sadhus succumbed to their injuries.

The attackers then placed the bodies in their car and drove to Navata, where they disposed of the bodies in pits dug for a brick kiln. Vishisht Giri Maharaj was reported to have had ₹15 lakh and a car, both of which are now missing.

After the bodies were found, the police analyzed CCTV footage from the area. They identified a suspicious car that crossed into Haryana after entering Rajasthan. Five police teams have been formed to trace the vehicle and apprehend the culprits. Forensic teams collected evidence from the scene, and the police are interviewing other sadhus to gather more information.

The bodies were taken to the Government Hospital in Buhana for postmortem and were later handed over to their families.

The incident has sparked outrage and concern within the community. Speculations suggest that the murder could be linked to a financial dispute, given the missing money and car. The sadhus from Baba Jahar Giri Ashram Bhiwani, who identified the bodies, are calling for a thorough investigation to ensure justice.

The brutal murder of the two sadhus has raised serious concerns about safety and security in the region. The police are actively pursuing leads and have assured the community of a comprehensive investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.