Youth arrested for murder of former Bajrang Dal functionary in Pudukkottai

A 23-year-old man was arrested on Saturday in connection with the murder of a former district president of the Bajrang Dal at Tiruvappur in Pudukottai town on Friday (February 13, 2026).

The deceased, S. Mohanraj, 38, was hacked to death at his residence by an unidentified person who fled the scene. Preliminary inquiries revealed that a dispute relating to a financial transaction was behind the killing of Mohanraj, who is alleged to have been in debt.

According to police sources, about three years ago, Mohanraj had allegedly received ₹14 lakh from R. Viswa, 23, of Kulithalai in Karur district, promising to secure him a government job. After realising that he had been cheated, Viswa demanded the return of his money. Mohanraj reportedly repaid ₹10 lakh but failed to return the remaining ₹4 lakh.

Police said Viswa had allegedly been contacting Mohanraj over the phone and had also visited his residence on several occasions seeking repayment of the balance amount. On the day of the incident, he is said to have gone to Mohanraj’s house again to demand the remaining ₹4 lakh. When Mohanraj allegedly refused to pay, Viswa, in a fit of rage, attacked and killed him.

The Thirugokarnam police have arrested Viswa and are investigating.