Former BJYM Leader Sonu Rathore Shot, Stabbed in Kanpur; Bajrang Dal Functionary Arrested

Kanpur witnessed a violent attack late on February 18, 2026, when Sonu Rathore, former district vice president of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), was brutally assaulted near Chhapera Pulia under the limits of Rawatpur Police Station.

According to police, Rathore was returning from a wedding when he was intercepted on the road. He was allegedly beaten, stabbed multiple times — reportedly seven to eight times — and shot in the back.

Police Action

Rawatpur police received information late Tuesday night about a clash and gunfire near Chhapera Puliya bridge. A police team rushed to the spot and found Rathore seriously injured. He was immediately shifted to Hallett Hospital (LLR Hospital) for treatment.

Police identified the main accused as Abhishek Vishwakarma, reportedly a functionary associated with Bajrang Dal. He was arrested within an hour of the incident following a raid at his residence.

Motive and Investigation

Preliminary investigation indicates that the attack stemmed from a long-standing personal enmity, reportedly linked to a dispute over a shop.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) S. M. Kasim Abidi stated that a case has been registered based on a written complaint from the victim’s side and further legal action is underway.

Current Condition

Rathore is currently admitted to the ICU. While earlier reports described his condition as critical, doctors after preliminary treatment stated that he is presently out of immediate danger.

Further investigation into the incident is ongoing.

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