Firing During Betalghat Block Chief Election, 6 Accused Arrested – Swift Action on SSP Nainital’s Orders,

Betalghat (Nainital District), August 14, 2025 –Tension gripped the Betalghat Block Chief election on Thursday when supporters of one candidate allegedly opened indiscriminate fire on the supporters of a rival candidate. The sudden gunfire created panic among those present.

In the incident, Mahendra Singh Bisht alias Godhan Singh (resident of Chhada Khairna) sustained serious injuries. He was rushed to the Community Health Center (CHC) Khairna, and later referred to a higher medical facility due to his critical condition.

Acting on a complaint filed by the victim’s side, Betalghat Police registered a case and, under the leadership of SHO Anish Ahmad, swiftly arrested all six named accused and seized two vehicles allegedly used in the incident.

Arrested Accused

1. Deepak Singh Rawat alias Latwal (28) – Chitrakoot, Ramnagar
2. Yash Bhatnagar alias Yashu (19) – Shivalalpur Roniya, Ramnagar
3. Virendra Arya alias Vicky (39) – Lakhanpur, Ramnagar
4. Ravindra Kumar alias Ravi (28) – Dhela Patrani, Ramnagar
5. Prakash Bhatt (28) – Khuriyakhatta No. 08, Bindukhatta
6. Pankaj Papola (29) – Khuriyakhatta No. 09, Bindukhatta

Arrest Team – Betalghat Police Station

• SHO Anish Ahmad
• Head Constables Vinod Singh, Naveen Pandey
• Constables Deepak Samant, Deepak Singh
• Home Guard Kapil Budhodi

The SSP of Nainital has taken the incident seriously, issuing strict instructions to maintain law and order and ensure the peaceful conduct of the election process. Police investigations are ongoing, and efforts are underway to apprehend any other individuals who may have been involved.