Jaigaon Shopkeeper Dies After Stabbing: Bhutanese Youth Allegedly Involved
A Knife, A Death, and a Border: How Indo-Bhutan Friendship Averted a Crisis
Jaigaon Shopkeeper Dies After Stabbing: Bhutanese Youth Allegedly Involved
In a tragic incident that unfolded in Jaigaon on August 24, 2024, Kumar Thapa, a local shopkeeper, succumbed to fatal injuries after being allegedly stabbed by a Bhutanese national, Yeshi Dawa. The incident has not only shocked the local community but also highlighted the enduring cooperation between the Royal Bhutan Police (RBP) and Jaigaon Police, reflecting the deep-rooted friendship between India and Bhutan.
The Incident Unfolds
The altercation took place around 4:30 PM in Subhash Pally, Jaigaon, behind St. Dominic’s School. The victim, Kumar Thapa, and the alleged attacker, Yeshi Dawa, both lived in the same premises and had a history of disputes. According to witnesses, the argument escalated as Yeshi, under the influence of drugs, including dendrite, confronted Thapa. The confrontation quickly turned violent, leading to Yeshi allegedly stabbing Thapa in the chest, near his heart, in what appeared to be a premeditated attack.
Immediate Police Response
Jaigaon Police, led by IC Palzer Bhutia, responded swiftly to the emergency. Thapa, who was critically injured, was rushed to Lothabari Hospital. Despite the medical team’s efforts, he succumbed to his injuries, leaving the community in shock and mourning.
The Accused: A Troubled History
Yeshi Dawa, a 32-year-old truck driver from Nangkar, Pemayangtse, Bhutan, was identified as the prime suspect. Dawa had been staying at the premises where the incident occurred, frequently visiting his girlfriend who resided there. According to neighbors and the victim’s family, Dawa had a history of substance abuse and erratic behavior, often causing disturbances late at night. His erratic actions had been a source of tension among the tenants, and there had been repeated complaints about his behavior.
The Day of the Incident
On the day of the stabbing, Dawa was reportedly in a volatile state. After a brief discussion with the landlord, Suresh Yadav, who urged him to vacate the premises, Dawa encountered Kumar Thapa. An argument ensued, and fearing for his safety, Thapa pushed Dawa away. Enraged, Dawa allegedly took out a pocket knife, threatening Thapa before stabbing him multiple times in the chest.
In a state of panic, Dawa fled the scene. He ran towards the GREF Officer’s Mess premises, crossing into Bhutan by scaling a 12-15 foot border wall, where he was spotted by Dessups, Bhutanese volunteers on duty. The Dessups detained Dawa and informed the Royal Bhutan Police.
Cross-Border Cooperation: A Testament to Indo-Bhutan Friendship
The swift communication between the Royal Bhutan Police and Jaigaon Police exemplifies the strong bonds between India and Bhutan. Upon receiving the alert from the Dessups, the Royal Bhutan Police immediately informed Jaigaon Police that the person in their custody was the prime suspect in the Jaigaon stabbing case. Despite the international border, the RBP showcased their commitment to justice by promptly handing over Dawa to Jaigaon Police after providing him with necessary medical attention for a fractured leg sustained during his escape.
This act of cooperation underscores the longstanding tradition of mutual respect and collaboration between the two nations, particularly in matters of law enforcement. Both agencies have a history of working closely to maintain peace and security along the border, ensuring that justice is served irrespective of national boundaries.
A Growing Concern: Bhutanese Youth in Jaigaon
The incident has brought attention to the growing number of Bhutanese nationals residing in Jaigaon. According to local sources, pre-COVID, more than 10,000 Bhutanese lived in various parts of Jaigaon, including Subhash Pally. The lower cost of living and rent in Jaigaon compared to Phuentsholing has made it an attractive place for Bhutanese nationals. However, the lack of restrictions and easy availability of drugs have led to concerns about the increasing involvement of Bhutanese youth in unlawful activities.
Maintaining Order Amidst Outrage
As news of the incident spread, tensions in Jaigaon escalated. Hundreds of locals gathered outside the Jaigaon Police Station, demanding swift action against the accused. Fearing possible unrest, Jaigaon Police increased patrols in the area to prevent any retaliation against other Bhutanese residents.
IC Palzer Bhutia, displaying commendable leadership, managed the situation with sensitivity, ensuring that the community’s anger did not spill over into violence. His actions, coupled with the timely cooperation from the Royal Bhutan Police, helped to calm the situation.
The Legal Proceedings
Following his handover, Yeshi Dawa was produced in court and is now in judicial custody. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are awaited. Meanwhile, Kumar Thapa’s body has been sent for an autopsy, and after completing the necessary legal and medical formalities, it will be handed over to his grieving family.
A Tragedy Amidst Friendship
The tragic death of Kumar Thapa has left a deep scar on the Jaigaon community. However, the incident also highlights the strength of the Indo-Bhutan relationship, particularly the collaboration between their police forces. The prompt actions of both Jaigaon Police and the Royal Bhutan Police not only brought a swift resolution to the case but also reaffirmed the enduring friendship between the two nations. As the legal process continues, the community hopes for justice, while the bond between India and Bhutan remains as strong as ever.
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