New Delhi, May 6 (IANS) Delhi Police have filed a detailed chargesheet against 18 adults and 2 minors in connection with the killing of a 26-year-old man in the Uttam Nagar area of West Delhi during Holi celebrations earlier this year.

The victim was identified as Tarun Khatik.

The chargesheet, running over 500 pages, has named a total of 20 accused persons, including 18 adults and 2 minors.

According to police, the two minors have also been found to be allegedly involved in the incident. A Preliminary Inquiry Report (PIR) has been submitted before the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB), and proceedings against them will be conducted separately under juvenile laws.

The case dates back to March 4, when a minor incident during Holi escalated into a violent confrontation. As per the investigation, a water balloon thrown by a child accidentally hit a woman belonging to a different community, which triggered a dispute between two groups. The argument reportedly intensified and later turned into a serious clash.

Police allege that after the initial confrontation, Tarun was intercepted near his residence and brutally assaulted with sticks and other weapons. He sustained serious injuries and died a day later during treatment.

The chargesheet includes serious offences such as murder, unlawful assembly, rioting, criminal conspiracy, and provisions under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Following further investigation, sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Section 95 and 103(2), have also been added.

Officials said that two of the accused are currently absconding, and non-bailable warrants have been issued against them.

According to earlier reports, the incident was linked to long-standing neighbourhood tensions that escalated sharply during the Holi celebrations, eventually leading to violence.

Investigators also noted that the assault took place after the situation spiralled out of control following the initial dispute over the water incident, with multiple individuals allegedly involved in the attack.

Police continue to investigate the broader circumstances of the case, while further legal proceedings are underway in the Dwarka Court.

–IANS

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