CBI brings accused Vikas and Golu Singh to Bengal in Chandranath Rath murder case

A major development has emerged in the investigation into the murder of Chandranath Rath, a former personal assistant to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, with the CBI bringing accused Vikas and Golu Singh to West Bengal for further questioning. The move comes as investigators intensify efforts to reconstruct the events surrounding the targeted killing and identify the wider network allegedly involved in the crime.

The latest development follows the surrender of prime accused Gyanendra Pratap Singh alias Manu before a court in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh. The court subsequently remanded him to 14 days of CBI custody. Investigators have described him as a key suspect and said he allegedly has a long criminal record, with multiple cases registered against him.

According to investigators, CCTV footage collected during the probe established the presence of several suspects and helped investigators identify key individuals linked to the murder. Following the analysis of the footage, CBI teams conducted multiple searches and interrogations, leading to sustained pressure on the accused persons under investigation.

The murder took place on the night of May 6 when Chandranath Rath was returning home after completing work at Nizam Palace. Investigators allege that the attackers followed Rath’s vehicle before intercepting it in Madhyamgram. The assailants then opened fire at close range, killing Rath on the spot while seriously injuring his driver. Officials said the entire attack was carried out in approximately 50 seconds.

Investigators suspect that professional shooters from outside West Bengal were involved in the operation. They are also examining whether local assistance was provided to help the attackers monitor Rath’s movements and escape through narrow lanes in the area after the shooting. Several suspects have already been questioned as the investigation continues.