70-year-old temple trustee beaten to death by watchman in Indore, CCTV captures brutal attack

INDORE: A 70-year-old trustee of a 150-year-old temple in Indore was beaten to death with a stick by the temple's watchman in a shocking attack that was caught on CCTV early Tuesday morning.The accused allegedly chased Kailash Modi into a nearby Gurudwara and continued assaulting him before fleeing. Police have detained the watchman, Mukesh Sharma, and launched an investigation into the murder.Investigators said the incident took place when Modi was reportedly confronted by Sharma, who was employed as a watchman and caretaker at the temple. According to police, Sharma had a history of consuming alcohol and creating disturbances within the temple premises.

Modi had allegedly advised him on multiple occasions to mend his behaviour.On the day of the incident, Sharma allegedly arrived at the temple under the influence of alcohol. When Modi attempted to intervene and counsel him once again, an argument reportedly broke out. Police said Sharma suddenly picked up a stick and launched an attack. As the situation escalated, Modi tried to escape and ran towards a nearby Gurudwara in an attempt to seek safety.

CCTV footage of the incident has surfaced, showing the elderly trustee fleeing from the accused before entering the Gurudwara premises. The footage reportedly captures Modi attempting to shut the gate behind him, but Sharma manages to enter before it can be closed. The accused then allegedly knocked Modi to the ground and repeatedly assaulted him with the stick.Officials said the assault continued inside the Gurudwara, where Sharma allegedly targeted Modi's head, arms and legs.

Preliminary information suggests that the victim was struck more than 30 times during the attack. After leaving him critically injured and unconscious, the accused fled the scene.Severely wounded, Modi collapsed and was later rushed to a nearby hospital by local residents. Despite medical efforts, he died during treatment due to the seriousness of his injuries.ACP Shivendu Joshi said the attack took place at around 5.30 am.

Police have taken Sharma into custody and are investigating the circumstances that led to the murder.Witnesses reportedly hesitated to intervene during the assault out of fear that the attacker could turn violent towards them as well.Apart from his role at the temple, Modi was involved in the catering business. He is survived by his son, Pawan, and four brothers. Further investigation into the case is underway.