A father-son duo in Delhi has been arrested on charges of murdering a property dealer, following a meticulously planned attack carried out over a longstanding dispute. The 47-year-old father, Khushi Ram, and his 18-year-old son were taken into custody in connection with the case, police confirmed.
The victim, identified as Lakhpat Singh Kataria, 56, was attacked on the morning of Friday while walking in Vijay Mandal Park, Begumpur. He sustained multiple injuries from a cricket bat and gunfire and succumbed to them at AIIMS Trauma Centre.
Authorities say the murder was timed strategically: the attack was committed a day before the son’s 18th birthday, possibly to absolve the youth from full criminal liability under juvenile law.
Background & Motive
Longstanding Feud
Investigations reveal that in 2016, Kataria had allegedly assaulted Khushi Ram during a property dispute and allegedly left him bedridden for several months. The father is said to have harbored resentment for years before executing revenge.
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Ankit Chauhan, the duo surveilled the victim’s routine before the attack and planned the assault strategically.
Evidence and Investigation
Police combed through over 650 CCTV cameras across a 55-kilometre radius and analyzed technical surveillance and call data records to trace the suspects. The black motorcycle used in the crime (with its number plate removed) has been recovered.
During interrogation, Khushi Ram reportedly confessed to the plot, admitting that he involved his son purposely just before he turned 18.
The youth had conducted reconnaissance of Kataria’s morning walks before the fatal act.
Police say they are continuing efforts to recover the firearm and any other evidence.
Legal Implications & Response
Under Indian law, crimes involving minors are subject to special scrutiny through juvenile justice provisions. By timing the attack just before the youth’s 18th birthday, the accused may have tried to exploit juvenile protection laws.
The police have indicated they will treat the case with “utmost priority,” and both suspects have been remanded to judicial custody.
A local child rights advocate commented: “This is a premeditated crime that shows how calculated violence can be in personal disputes. Ensuring the youth is held accountable is vital for justice and deterrence.”
What It Means for Delhi
This case has sent ripples through Delhi’s public discourse, especially in communities grappling with land and property conflicts. It underscores how protracted disputes can escalate into fatal violence—even involving one’s own child as an accomplice.
For residents, it raises concerns about safety in public spaces like parks and the efficacy of surveillance deterrents. The swift use of CCTV and technical intelligence in this case also shows the growing role of digital tools in law enforcement.
Families and watchdog groups may push for stricter enforcement of laws governing juvenile complicity in crime, as well as better conflict resolution mechanisms for property disputes.
FAQs
The arrested suspects are Khushi Ram (47) and his 18-year-old son, held for allegedly murdering property dealer Lakhpat Singh Kataria.
The motive appears rooted in a property-related feud dating back to 2016, when the victim allegedly injured Khushi Ram, who sought revenge.
Police believe the timing was deliberate, intended to exploit juvenile laws and reduce legal consequences for the son.
