Four killed in gambling dispute between two families in India’s Madhya Pradesh

Rajashree Seal January 29, 2025
Four killed in gambling dispute between two families in India’s Madhya Pradesh

A violent clash between two families in Timri village in central India’s Madhya Pradesh state, resulted in the deaths of four people and left two others injured. Three people were killed on the spot while the fourth person succumbed to injuries in the hospital.

The clash erupted over a long-standing rivalry between the Pathak and Sahu families over gambling activities. The members reportedly started attacking each other with swords and sticks.

The dispute, which had been brewing for two months, was allegedly triggered by gambling-related conflict. The feud reportedly started when the Pathak family opposed gambling activities organised by the Sahu family near their home. Efforts to resolve the issue, including a recent village meeting, did not stop the conflict from escalating.

Ganesh Pathak, father of the deceased Pathak brothers, explained that the violence escalated after a young man, identified as Kalu, created a ruckus under the influence of alcohol. “The families had been in conflict for two months over gambling disputes,” he said.

Following the violence, local residents blocked the Patan-Jabalpur road, forcing the deployment of additional police forces. Senior officers arrived at the scene to restore order and prevent further unrest.

The victims have been identified as Satish and Manish Pathak from the Pathak family, and Aniket and Sameer Dubey from the Dubey family. Two others are undergoing medical treatment..

A case of murder has been registered and several individuals were detained for questioning. A cross FIR has been filed against both parties involved in the conflict.

Gambling in India

India has a deep-rooted gambling tradition embedded in its cultural and social fabric. From the roll of dice in the Mahabharata, where a wager cost a princely clan its kingdom, to traditional bets on rooster fights and card games like rummy (considered a game of skill), gambling has long been a part of Indian life. Popular games such as teen patti (similar to poker) and matka (a lottery-like game) have been enjoyed across many states, and gambling is closely tied to festivals and social gatherings.

However, gambling in India remains controversial, with laws varying from state to state. While most states prohibit gambling, exceptions exist for lottery and horse racing. Goa and Sikkim are the only states where casinos are allowed. The Public Gambling Act of 1867 serves as the central legislation, prohibiting the operation of “common gaming houses,” although it makes an exception for “games of skill” like rummy.

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