Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday ordered an inquiry by the Central Bureau of Investigation into the death of a journalist in Bhind district, ANI reported. The state police have arrested a truck driver for running over the journalist, who was investigating illegal sand mining cases, on Monday.
Sandeep Sharma, working for a TV news channel, had approached the police claiming there was an immediate threat to his life after he had accused a police officer of being involved with the sand mafia. The police officer was transferred after the TV channel aired an audio conversation involving him.
The driver, identified as Ranbir Yadav, is a resident of Gadu Pura village. He told the police that he hit Sharma while attempting to avoid running over a woman. “I was trying to save a woman when I took the turn,” Yadav told ANI. “I did not even see the side glass.”
The police had earlier formed a Special Investigation Team to look into the journalist’s death, and Chouhan promised to take strict action against those responsible. Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia had demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation inquiry into Sharma’s death.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!