February 26, 2024 : The recent tragic incident involving the shooting of Nafe Singh Rathee, the state president of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), has sent shockwaves through Haryana. On the evening of February 25, 2024, Rathee fell victim to unidentified assailants while traveling in an SUV in Bahadurgarh, Haryana. Despite immediate medical attention at a nearby hospital, Rathee succumbed to his injuries. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and raised concerns about the state’s law and order situation.
Rathee was traveling in an SUV when assailants in a car targeted him in Bahadurgarh town, Jhajjar district. The attackers opened fire, leaving Rathee critically wounded. Tragically, he could not survive his injuries. Alongside Rathee, one of the accompanying party workers also lost his life in the attack. Additionally, three private gunmen, hired by Rathee for security, sustained injuries in the assault.
The attack, occurring just weeks before the Lok Sabha elections, has evoked strong reactions from opposition parties. They have criticized the government, alleging a breakdown in law and order under the BJP-led state administration. Abhay Chautala, a prominent figure in the INLD, lamented the lack of police security provided to Rathee despite the looming threats.
Law enforcement agencies have launched an investigation into the incident. Jhajjar Superintendent of Police Arpit Jain confirmed that specialized teams are actively pursuing leads to apprehend the culprits. Efforts are underway to analyze CCTV footage to track the movements of the attackers.
Initial inquiries suggest a possible link to a property dispute, with gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and his associate Kala Jathedi emerging as suspected masterminds behind the attack. However, investigations are ongoing to establish the motive conclusively.
Both Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Home Minister Anil Vij have pledged swift action, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice. Khattar expressed condolences over Rathee’s demise and assured stringent action against those responsible.
Political Profile of Nafe Singh Rathee
Rathee, a former MLA from Bahadurgarh, served twice in the Haryana Legislative Assembly. He was an active figure within the INLD and held significant positions, including the state president of the Haryana Former Legislators Association. Rathee’s involvement in political affairs extended to his participation in Lok Sabha elections and his tenure as the Chairman of the Bahadurgarh Municipal Council.
Rathee’s name previously made headlines in connection with a suicide case involving the son of former Haryana minister Mange Ram Rathi. Allegations of abetment and harassment were leveled against Rathee and his nephew Sonu. However, Rathee was granted anticipatory bail by the High Court on January 24, 2023.
The untimely demise of Nafe Singh Rathee has not only robbed Haryana of a seasoned politician but has also raised pertinent questions about the safety of political figures in the region. As investigations continue, the quest for justice remains paramount, ensuring that such heinous acts are met with the full force of the law.
