Raichur: A dispute over a Rs 10 shortfall in a petrol bill allegedly escalated into the murder of a 42-year-old man near Hanchinal Camp in the district. Idapanur police have arrested six people in connection with the incident.The victim has been identified as Meghnath, 42. The arrested accused are Ravi, Veeresh, Narasimha, Mareppa, Ramesh and Praveen.Police said the incident began on the night of July 8 when Mahesh allegedly paid Rs 10 less after refuelling his vehicle at a petrol bunk. An argument reportedly broke out between Mahesh and Ravi, an employee at the petrol station.As the quarrel intensified, Meghnath and Nagaraj intervened in an attempt to pacify both sides. However, the accused allegedly turned on them and assaulted Meghnath.He sustained severe head injuries and was admitted to a private hospital in Raichur. Though he underwent surgery on Thursday morning, he succumbed to his injuries at around 8.25am.The assault was captured on CCTV cameras installed at the petrol bunk. Following a complaint by the victim’s wife, Idapanur police arrested six accused. She also alleged that Meghnath was subjected to caste-based abuse during the attack.Police have registered a case and are continuing further investigation into the incident.
