BJP leader shot dead in Madhya Pradesh town

The district panchayat vice-president and local BJP leader, Murat Singh Lodhi, 42, was shot dead at Rahatgarh area near Raisen, police said today.

Lodhi was allegedly shot dead last night by one Akhilesh Rai following a fight between two dancers of Bedia tribe, they said.

The deceased frequented one Sarita Bai's place, who was not getting along well with another dancer Mewa Bai, having a close relationship with Rai, they added.

Last night, Sarita and Mewa entered into an argument over some issue following which Lodhi and Rai took sides, police said.

The deceased and accused had a fight and Rai with a 12 bore gun allegedly fired at Lodhi, who sustained injuries to his head and stomach and died on the spot.

One Mukesh Rai who tried to make Lodhi and Rai reconcile also sustained injuries and has been admitted to a hospital in neighbouring Sagar district, police said.

Rai and three others have been booked in connection with the murder, police said.