New Delhi, Sep 26: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed charges against a father and son in connection with the murder of BJP leader Ratan Dubey, now known as the case of two men charged in the murder. The killing took place in November 2023 in Koushalnar village, Narayanpur district of Chhattisgarh, during an election campaign. The brutal attack shocked the community and raised concerns about growing political violence in the state.
The NIA named Shivanand Nag and his father Narayan Prasad Nag as the main accused. Officials said both men had links to the banned CPI (Maoist) group and held long-standing disputes with Dubey over politics, business, and personal matters. They now face charges under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
Witnesses recalled that the attackers used hand axes in broad daylight at a crowded weekly market. The assault spread fear among residents and tried to disrupt the election process. In its statement, the NIA confirmed that the accused took active roles in planning and carrying out the crime.
Investigators also traced the murder plot to the Bayanan Area Committee and Barsoor Area Committee of the East Bastar Division of CPI (Maoist). These groups, working with local supporters, organized the attack. The NIA took over the case in February 2024 and moved quickly. In June, they filed a charge sheet against another accused, Dhan Singh Korram, and in December, they added Sainuram Korram and Laluram Korram for their roles in the conspiracy.
This case, recorded as RC-08/2024/NIA/RPR, shows how political killings continue to affect Chhattisgarh. National data ranked the state fourth for political murders in 2022, behind Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand. Experts argue that such numbers underline the impact of Maoist-led violence on democratic processes.
The CPI (Maoist) insurgency, active since the 1980s, still fuels unrest. Attacks like Dubey’s murder reveal both local disputes and broader Maoist attempts to destabilize elections. The NIA’s active role signals a stronger federal push to curb such violence and protect democratic institutions.
Officials confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing. They continue to track additional suspects and wider networks that may have supported the attackers. Their focus is not only on punishing those guilty but also on preventing similar crimes in the future.
Community leaders in Narayanpur voiced concern and demanded stronger protection for political workers. They said grassroots leaders face high risks, and without security, people may lose faith in democracy. Families of residents also called for swift justice so that citizens can feel safe while engaging in politics.
In conclusion, the NIA’s charges against Shivanand Nag and Narayan Prasad Nag represent a key step toward justice in the Ratan Dubey case. Yet, the larger fight against political violence remains urgent. The case of two men charged in the murder reminds India of the need to safeguard democracy in Chhattisgarh and beyond.
