Santiniketan panchayat member murdered over extramarital affair; 6 arrested

In Santiniketan, Samir Thandar, a member of the Kankalitola Gram Panchayat, was murdered on Saturday. The police have indicated that the murder is linked to an extramarital affair involving Thandar and Sabita Das, which was discovered by her husband, Bishwajit Das. Following the discovery of this relationship, a violent confrontation ensued, leading to Thandar sustaining life-threatening injuries.

The West Bengal police have arrested six individuals in connection with Thandar's murder. The suspects include Krishno Dolui, Bablu Haldar, Bishwajit Das, Shila Das, Sabita Das, and Sanchita Dolui. Bishwajit Das, identified as the primary instigator, allegedly led the assault on Thandar after confronting him about the affair. Police are investigating the extent of involvement of each suspect, as well as any premeditation that may have occurred.

On the day of the incident, Thandar left his home around noon, stating he was going to work. Later that evening, he called his wife, informing her that he had been attacked and was lying injured on the roadside near Kankalitola. His wife promptly went to the location and found him in a critical state, bleeding and unconscious. Local residents assisted in calling emergency services, and Thandar was taken to Shyama Hospital for initial treatment. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was subsequently transferred to a larger medical facility in Burdwan for specialized care.

Despite the efforts of medical staff, Samir Thandar succumbed to his injuries on Sunday morning, prompting an outpouring of grief in the community. The police have stated that they are gathering evidence, including eyewitness accounts and surveillance footage from the area, to build a comprehensive case against the suspects. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are seeking to understand the dynamics of the relationships involved and any additional motives that may have contributed to the violent altercation.