Varanasi Court Sentences 16 Men to Life Imprisonment for Murder of BJP Leader
Varanasi, June 14, 2025: In a significant judgment nearly three years after the brutal killing of a senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, a Varanasi court on Friday sentenced 16 men to life imprisonment for the murder of 73-year-old Pashupati Nath. The accused, all residents of the Sigra area, were convicted of charges including murder, attempt to murder, rioting, and criminal conspiracy.
Nath, a respected social worker and BJP member, lost his life while trying to protect his son during a violent altercation outside a liquor shop located beneath their home in Jai Prakash Nagar Colony on October 12, 2022.
What Happened in 2022: A Dispute That Turned Deadly
The incident unfolded when Raj Kumar Singh (42), Nath’s son, confronted a group of men — including Mantu Saroj and Rahul Saroj — who were creating a ruckus at a liquor shop on the ground floor of their building. A heated exchange ensued, drawing the attention of nearby residents.
After initially dispersing, the accused returned with reinforcements, armed with sticks and iron rods, and attacked Raj Kumar. When Pashupati Nath rushed to the scene to protect his son, the mob turned on him, beating him severely. Nath lost consciousness and was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries en route.
An FIR was lodged at Sigra police station, naming 18 individuals, including two minors. The 16 adult accused were arrested, released on bail, and later put on trial, while the juveniles’ cases are still under consideration by the Juvenile Justice Board.
Court Proceedings and Conviction
The court proceedings stretched over two years and involved the examination of 11 witnesses — eight for the prosecution and three for the defense. After a comprehensive review of the evidence and testimonies, the Varanasi district court found all 16 men guilty on Thursday.
On Friday, the court officially pronounced life imprisonment sentences for all 16, who were taken into custody immediately after the verdict. The convicts, aged between 25 and 45, were also fined by the court.
“The court sentenced all 16 accused to life imprisonment and imposed fines for their roles in the murder and associated crimes,” said government counsel Manoj Gupta.
Defense Plans to Challenge Verdict
Despite the judgment, the defense team expressed dissatisfaction. Defense counsel Virendra Pathak announced plans to appeal the conviction in a higher court, suggesting that the accused were not given due consideration during the trial.
“We will file an appeal in the High Court and hope for justice for our clients,” Pathak stated.
Community Reaction: Relief and Caution
Local residents of Jai Prakash Nagar Colony, where the incident occurred, expressed relief at the judgment, viewing it as a long-awaited justice for a man known for his social activism and community service.
However, some have also voiced concern about lingering tensions in the neighborhood, as most of the convicts belonged to the same locality as the victim.
“He was a man of principles and stood against wrongdoings. His murder shook us all. We hope this verdict sets a precedent,” said a neighbor who requested anonymity.
Case Timeline Summary
- October 12, 2022: Pashupati Nath killed during mob attack in Varanasi.
- October 13, 2022: FIR filed; 18 individuals named (16 adults, 2 minors).
- 2023–2025: Trial held in Varanasi district court.
- June 13, 2025: Court convicts all 16 adults.
- June 14, 2025: Sentencing: life imprisonment for all accused.