Jabalpur: Sculptor Shot Dead While Making Lord Ganesha Idols, Old Rivalry Suspected

A 48-year-old sculptor was shot dead late Friday night while sculpting Lord Ganesha idols in the Hanumantal police station area of Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. The victim, identified as Manoj Sonkar (also known as Babba Sonkar), was giving finishing touches to idols at a workshop pandal near Mathura Seth when unidentified assailants opened fire from behind before fleeing the scene. Local residents and fellow artisans rushed Sonkar to the nearest hospital following the gunshots. However, doctors pronounced him dead during treatment due to severe gunshot injuries. Delhi: Property Dealer Shot Dead Outside Gym in Narela, 16 Rounds Fired.

Police officials, including Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Ayush Jakhar, arrived at the spot shortly after the incident to secure the area and initiate forensic procedures. Authorities confirmed that a case of murder has been registered against unknown individuals, and teams are actively scanning CCTV footage from surrounding lanes to identify the suspects and trace their escape route. Preliminary police investigations suggest that the shooting may stem from a past personal dispute. Officials stated that while early inputs point toward an old rivalry, investigators are probing all possible angles to establish the exact motive. Blinkit Delivery Executive Shot Dead After Dispute at Momo Stall in Gwalior.

The incident occurred during late-night preparations ahead of the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi festival, triggering tension and shock among local idol makers and residents in the Hanumantal locality. Police have deployed additional personnel in the area to maintain order and assured that the culprits will be arrested soon.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 05, 2026 11:11 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).