Overview
- The attack took place late Friday night at the centuries-old Chandresal math in Kota district when unknown intruders entered the complex and fatally stabbed Mahant Devanand Maharaj.
- Sevadars and villagers found the mahant bleeding in his room and rushed him to Maharao Bhim Singh Hospital where doctors pronounced him dead from multiple stab wounds and excessive blood loss.
- Kota police have deployed specialised teams, a Forensic Science Laboratory unit and a dog squad to collect fingerprints, blood and weapon samples while tracking dogs and CCTV from nearby roads are being examined to map the escape route.
- Investigators are treating several possible motives as active leads, including a robbery that turned violent, property disputes tied to the monastery’s land and personal rivalries, but no arrests or definitive motive have been announced.
- The killing has provoked anger among residents and Hindu groups, prompted demands for swift arrests and led police to boost security at Chandresal village and the MBS Hospital mortuary while officials urge calm.