Newsmakers

A seemingly trivial argument over chicken pieces during a drinking party turned fatal in Karnataka's Belagavi district, where a man was allegedly stabbed to death by his friend.

The incident took place in Hunashyal PG village in Mudalagi taluk on August 23. The deceased has been identified as Seetharam Chandradev, a native of Kabirganj village in Uttar Pradesh's Pilibhit district. He and the accused, identified as Arun Kumar, were working at the same steel company in the area.

According to police, the two men were among a group of workers who had gathered at their accommodation on a Sunday. The group reportedly consumed alcohol and prepared chicken for the meal.

During the gathering, an argument broke out between Seetharam and Arun Kumar over the quantity of chicken being eaten. Police said Arun allegedly accused Seetharam of taking more pieces of chicken than him.

The disagreement soon escalated into a violent confrontation. Arun allegedly picked up a knife lying nearby and stabbed Seetharam in the chest, causing serious injuries.

Attempt To Pass Off Murder As Accident
After the stabbing, Arun reportedly took Seetharam to a government hospital in Gokak. He allegedly told doctors that his friend had suffered injuries after falling from a building while working.

However, the explanation raised suspicion after medical staff noticed the nature of the chest injury.

Police were alerted and began questioning Arun. Investigators subsequently examined the circumstances surrounding the incident and reportedly found inconsistencies in his account.

During questioning, Arun allegedly admitted to stabbing Seetharam following the argument.

Despite receiving medical treatment, Seetharam succumbed to his injuries.

Police arrested Arun Kumar and recovered the knife allegedly used in the attack. A murder case has been registered, and further investigation is underway.

Belagavi Superintendent of Police K Ramarajan said the incident was initially presented differently, but a detailed investigation established that it was a murder.

The incident has once again highlighted how an apparently minor disagreement, particularly when alcohol is involved, can escalate into deadly violence.