Businessman brutally murdered over 70,000 debt, accused house vandalized

A tragic incident unfolded in Deulpota village of Kanthi Deshpran block, East Medinipur, where businessman Govinda Patra (45) was murdered over a financial dispute involving a loan of 70 thousand rupees. The incident occurred Thursday night when Govinda was lured to a drinking party by the accused, Uttam Patra, who had borrowed money from him several weeks prior.

Sources indicate that Govinda had been pressuring Uttam for repayment, which led to rising tensions between the two men. During the drinking session, a heated argument broke out regarding the outstanding debt. In a fit of rage, Uttam allegedly struck Govinda on the head with a nearby brick, inflicting severe injuries. Eyewitnesses reported that he then repeatedly smashed Govinda’s head with the same brick, resulting in life-threatening injuries. Tragically, Govinda succumbed to his injuries en route to Kanthi Hospital.

The news of Govinda's death sparked outrage in the community. An agitated crowd gathered, demanding justice and expressing their anger by vandalizing Uttam Patra's house. The mob set the house on fire, prompting a swift response from local law enforcement and the fire brigade. Police have since arrested Uttam Patra and an accomplice, Batul Maiti, on charges of murder. Investigations are ongoing to determine if others were involved in the brutal crime.

According to Kanthi Divisional Police Officer Dibakar Das, “This tragic incident arose from a dispute over alcohol and debt. We are thoroughly investigating the entire matter.” The deceased's body has been sent to Kanthi Sub-Divisional Hospital for post-mortem examination, as the community mourns the loss of Govinda Patra, a local businessman whose life was cut short by senseless violence.