In a disturbing incident from Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh, journalist and RTI activist Raghvendra Bajpai was shot dead on March 8. Police allege that the murder was orchestrated by temple priest Vikas Rathore, also known as Baba Shivanand, after Bajpai reportedly witnessed Rathore sexually assaulting a minor boy at the temple. The Wire
According to Superintendent of Police Chakresh Mishra, the accused Vikas Rathore had been living in the Karyadev Temple in Sitapur for the past few years, working as the assistant to the head priest, Ramakant Mishra. He was residing under the fake name of Vikas Mishra while assisting the chief priest in daily religious activities like puja. Besides this, he was earning money through astrology, tantric rituals, and other dubious practices. SP Mishra revealed that for the past three to four months, journalist Raghvendra Bajpai had been regularly visiting the temple and had developed a friendship with Rathore. However, during one of his visits in early February, Bajpai reportedly caught Rathore in an obscene act — sexually assaulting a minor boy who used to help with temple management. Police further claimed that Rathore was involved in similar acts with other men as well. Fearing exposure of his heinous acts, especially since it was a temple and his social reputation and income were at stake, Rathore allegedly hatched a conspiracy to get Bajpai killed before the journalist could reveal the truth to the world.
Allegations Against the Priest
According to law enforcement, Rathore feared exposure of his actions and consequently hired two individuals, Nirmal Singh and Aslam Ghazi, paying them ₹4 lakh to eliminate Bajpai. These intermediaries then engaged professional shooters to carry out the assassination. The Wire
Rathore, who had been residing at the Karyadev Mandir in Maholi under the alias Vikas Mishra, was involved in religious duties and also offered services related to astrology and tantric rituals. The Wire
Family’s Perspective and Demands
Bajpai’s family disputes the police’s narrative, suggesting a broader conspiracy linked to his investigative journalism on local corruption, including irregularities in land and paddy procurement. His wife, Rashmi Bajpai, has called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe, expressing distrust in the local police’s findings. The Wire
Broader Implications
This case highlights the perils faced by journalists in India, especially those uncovering sensitive issues like corruption and abuse. It underscores the urgent need for stronger protections for media personnel and thorough investigations into crimes against them.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Raghvendra Bajpai serves as a stark reminder of the risks journalists encounter in their pursuit of truth. Ensuring justice in this case is imperative to uphold press freedom and the rule of law in India.LatestLY+1The Wire+1