Jharkhand News: Dumka Police Arrest Sahul Hansda for Threatening Mandal Murmu with ₹50 Lakh Reward

Dumka, November 07, 2024: In a significant development, Jharkhand police have arrested Sahul Hansda for allegedly posting a death threat against Mandal Murmu, a descendant of Sido Kanhu and proposer for Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s Barhet assembly seat. The arrest follows Murmu’s recent decision to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on November 4, which triggered threats on social media platforms.

Threat on WhatsApp Sparks Investigation

Authorities initiated an investigation after a WhatsApp group named Sales and Service circulated a post offering a ₹50 lakh reward for beheading Mandal Murmu. This provocative message raised alarms, leading to immediate police intervention. Dumka police, led by SP Pitambar Singh Kherwar, quickly acted to identify and apprehend the individual behind the post.

Accused Profile and Arrest

Sahul Hansda, the accused, resides in Chanddih within Dumka’s Mufassil police station jurisdiction. He is known for trading in used motorcycles, which connected him to the online community where the threatening post was made. During interrogation, Hansda admitted to making the post in a fit of anger.

Police Response and Investigation Details

Dumka SP Pitambar Singh Kherwar confirmed Hansda’s arrest and highlighted that the investigation is ongoing. Law enforcement has been scrutinizing related evidence, including WhatsApp communications and CCTV footage from nearby areas, to ascertain any additional links or instigators involved in this case.

Background on Mandal Murmu

Mandal Murmu’s political alignment recently shifted when he joined the BJP, sparking tensions among different community factions. As a descendant of Sido Kanhu, a revered tribal freedom fighter, Murmu’s actions carry weight in local socio-political contexts, making him a significant figure in Jharkhand’s political landscape.

The police’s swift action underscores the administration’s commitment to ensuring safety and curbing hate-fueled actions that threaten public figures and community leaders. The arrest sends a strong message against the misuse of social media for promoting violence or incitement.