CPI leader Chandu Rathod shot dead in Hyderabad while on morning walk
Hyderabad, July 15, 2025 — In a shocking and calculated act of violence, senior Communist Party of India (CPI) leader K. Chandu Rathod, 47, was shot dead in broad daylight while on his regular morning walk at a park in Hyderabad’s Malakpet locality. The attack has rattled political circles and residents alike, as authorities probe what appears to be a targeted assassination.
A Routine Morning Ends in Bloodshed
Chandu Rathod, popularly known as Chandu Nayak among locals, was a dedicated party worker and an active voice for tribal rights in Telangana. On Tuesday morning around 7:30 am, he went for his daily walk at Shalivahana Nagar Park, just like any other day. But within minutes, the peaceful surroundings were shattered by gunfire.
Eyewitnesses reported that a white Maruti Swift car pulled up near the park and three to four men got out. In an alarming tactic, they reportedly threw chilli powder into Rathod’s eyes to immobilize him before firing five close-range shots. The leader collapsed immediately, and the attackers fled in the same car, leaving behind a stunned and terrified public.
Who Was Chandu Rathod?
Chandu Rathod was not just a political figure — he was seen as a grassroots activist, deeply involved in land rights movements and social justice issues, especially in Warangal and surrounding regions. His leadership within the CPI earned him both respect and rivalry. Over the years, Rathod had reportedly been embroiled in multiple disputes — both personal and political — although his recent activities appeared low-profile.
A Chillingly Planned Assassination
The manner of the attack suggests meticulous planning and clear intent. The use of chilli powder indicates that the assailants wanted to disorient Rathod quickly, ensuring minimal resistance. According to police sources, the crime was executed within two minutes, and no valuables were taken — ruling out robbery as a motive.
Hyderabad Police Commissioner K.S. Venkateshwara Rao confirmed that a murder case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Arms Act has been registered. Forensic teams recovered bullet casings and are reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding areas. The commissioner also stated that the preliminary investigation does not indicate any Maoist or extremist group involvement.
Family Alleges Political Rivalry
While official motives are yet to be established, Rathod’s family believes the murder could be tied to a long-standing enmity with a CPI-ML leader named Rajesh from Devaruppala in Warangal district. Rathod had allegedly received threats in the past, but no formal complaints had been filed recently.
“We always feared something like this. He had enemies due to his activism and local land disputes,” said a grieving family member. “He didn’t carry a phone or security because he believed in living simply. That may have made him an easy target.”
Political Reactions Pour In
Condemnation of the incident has been swift. CPI State Secretary K. Narayana called the murder a “cowardly act”, demanding immediate justice. “This is an attack on democracy and the right to dissent. Chandu was a fearless comrade who always stood with the people,” he stated at a press briefing.
Other left-leaning political outfits have also expressed outrage, urging the government to identify and apprehend the culprits at the earliest. Telangana’s Home Minister said that the case would be “fast-tracked” and vowed that “no one responsible will be spared.”
Security Concerns for Activists Raised Again
This incident has reignited concerns around safety of grassroots leaders, particularly those dealing with land rights, forest issues, and local corruption. Many such activists operate without any formal protection, often in regions with high political tensions.
“We’ve seen this pattern before — intimidation, threats, and then silencing of voices,” said social activist Pushpa Rao. “This isn’t just a murder. It’s a message being sent to those who dare to challenge powerful interests.”
Ongoing Investigation
Police have formed multiple special teams to investigate various leads. CCTV footage from nearby areas is being analyzed to trace the getaway vehicle. Authorities are also questioning known associates and past rivals of Rathod, including individuals involved in land disputes and local political feuds.
Meanwhile, Rathod’s body has been shifted to Osmania General Hospital for post-mortem. His final rites will be held in his native town of Nekkonda, with CPI leaders from across Telangana expected to attend.
Conclusion: A Grim Reminder of Political Vulnerability
The killing of Chandu Rathod is not just a crime against one man — it symbolizes the ongoing threats faced by political activists who speak up against injustice and inequality. As Hyderabad mourns the loss of a committed leader, the focus now shifts to law enforcement to ensure justice is served swiftly and transparently.
