New Delhi
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the probe into the killing of Nafe Singh Rathee, the Indian National Lok Dal’s Haryana president, and party worker Jai Kishan, who were shot dead by unknown gunmen in Bahadurgarh in February. The attack also injured three private guards hired by Rathee for security.
The CBI’s involvement came after the Haryana government recommended the case’s transfer to the central agency, which was formalized through a notification from the Centre on April 26. The CBI’s FIR has named seven suspects, including former BJP MLA Naresh Kaushik, Karambir Rathee, Ramesh Rathee, Satish Rathee, Gaurav Rathee, Rahul, and Kamal. They face charges of criminal conspiracy and murder, among others.
The 67-year-old Rathee, a former MLA from Bahadurgarh, was shot on February 25, two months before the Lok Sabha elections. The incident drew criticism from opposition parties, questioning the law and order in BJP-ruled Haryana. According to the FIR, based on driver Rakesh’s statement, a white car was following their vehicle, and as they stopped at the Barahi railway crossing, five attackers emerged and opened fire, alleging personal enmity with Satish, Karambir, Ramesh, and Naresh. The CBI is continuing its investigation into the matter.
