A murder incident in the temple town of Bhadrachalam has triggered public protests and raised serious concerns over law and order, following the death of Sajja Ravi Varma (38), who was stabbed to death in broad daylight. Family members of the deceased staged a rasta-roko on Thursday, demanding severe punishment for the accused and alleging delay in police response.
The incident occurred on Wednesday when Ravi Varma reportedly intervened in a clash involving a group of intoxicated youths. According to local accounts, the deceased attempted to stop the youths from assaulting another individual over a petty issue. During the confrontation, he was allegedly attacked and fatally stabbed, causing panic among residents and traders in the busy town area.
Protest Led by Family Members and Locals
A large number of locals joined the protest, which was led by Ravi Varma’s wife Jayashree and other family members. The protestors blocked traffic for nearly an hour at the bridge centre and later gathered near the MLA camp office in Bhadrachalam.
The demonstrators expressed anguish over what they described as a deteriorating law-and-order situation in the town. They alleged that incidents involving youth clashes, alcohol-related violence, and serious crimes have been on the rise in recent times.
Allegations of Delay in Police Response
Speaking to the media, family members and residents claimed that despite repeated attempts to seek help, police response was delayed. According to them, calls were made to Dial 100 nearly six times during the clash, but police personnel reportedly reached the spot only after about 40 minutes.
The protestors alleged that a quicker response could have prevented the fatal outcome. These claims have added to public concern regarding emergency response mechanisms and policing efficiency in sensitive areas such as temple towns with high footfall.
Family Left in Distress
Ravi Varma’s death has left his wife widowed and their three daughters without a father, plunging the family into emotional and financial uncertainty. Family members expressed grief over the loss of the breadwinner and appealed to authorities for justice and long-term support.
The tragedy has resonated deeply with the local community, with residents expressing fear over safety and demanding stronger preventive measures to curb violent incidents.
Police Assure Action
Bhadrachalam Assistant Superintendent of Police Vikrant Singh Kumar and local Inspector of Police Nagaraju visited the protest site and held discussions with the grieving family. Following assurances from the police that strict legal action would be taken and that the accused would face severe punishment, the protest was called off.
Police officials stated that investigations are underway and that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure justice in the case.
Renewed Focus on Law and Order
The murder of Sajja Ravi Varma and the subsequent protest underscore growing public concern over safety and policing effectiveness in Bhadrachalam. As investigations continue, citizens and family members alike are calling for accountability, swift justice, and concrete measures to restore confidence in law-and-order enforcement.
The incident has once again brought attention to law-and-order challenges in smaller towns, particularly those witnessing rising population movement and social pressures. Residents have urged authorities to strengthen policing, ensure faster response times, and take preventive action against alcohol-related violence.
