Hyderabad, July 15: Senior Communist Party of India (CPI) leader Chandu Rathod was shot dead early Monday morning while on his routine walk in Hyderabad. The shocking incident has sent waves of fear and outrage through the local political landscape, with Rathod’s family alleging that the murder was a result of long-standing political enmity.

According to police reports, the shooting occurred in the LB Nagar area around 6:30 am. Eyewitnesses say unidentified assailants approached Rathod and fired multiple rounds at close range before fleeing the scene. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.

Rathod, a well-known grassroots leader in Telangana’s leftist political circles, had been actively involved in trade union movements and land rights protests for over two decades. He was widely respected for his commitment to workers’ issues and social justice.

His family has accused a member of a rival Communist party of orchestrating the murder, citing ongoing tensions and disputes over local leadership and political influence. “He had been receiving threats for months. We had approached authorities, but no action was taken,” said a relative of Rathod. The accused rival’s name has not yet been officially confirmed by police.

Local CPI workers staged protests outside the police station demanding immediate arrests and a thorough investigation. Senior CPI leaders have condemned the killing, calling it a direct attack on democracy and the right to dissent. “Chandu Rathod was a fearless voice for the oppressed. His murder is not just a loss for the party, but for the people he fought for,” said one party spokesperson.

The Hyderabad Police have formed a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the case. CCTV footage from the area is being reviewed, and forensic teams have collected evidence from the crime scene. Police are also examining Rathod’s recent movements and phone records to establish possible motives and suspects.

While political killings are not new in India, particularly among regional factions and rival ideologies, such targeted violence in urban areas like Hyderabad has raised fresh concerns over law and order. The murder has also reignited debates around political rivalry turning criminal and the state’s responsibility in ensuring protection for public figures under threat.

Leaders from across party lines, including those from the Congress, BJP, and CPI(M), have expressed condolences and called for justice. Telangana Chief Minister has promised swift action and assured the public that no one would be spared, regardless of political affiliation.

As investigations unfold, Rathod’s supporters and family continue to seek answers and justice for a man they say lived for the people and died for his beliefs.