Two Arrested After Encounter in BJP Youth Leader Rohit Negi’s Murder Case

Haridwar | 6 June 2025

The Uttarakhand Police on Thursday, 5th June, arrested two prime accused—Azhar Tyagi and his accomplice Ayush Kumar alias Sikandar—in the murder case of BJP Yuva Morcha leader Rohit Negi. The arrests followed a late-night police encounter near the Muzaffarnagar-Manglaur border.

Rohit Negi, a former Mandal President of the BJP Yuva Morcha, was shot dead on 3rd May after a heated confrontation with the accused. Azhar Tyagi, believed to be the main shooter, sustained three bullet injuries—two in his legs and one in his arm—during the encounter. His accomplice, Ayush Kumar, was also injured in the crossfire, with bullet wounds to both knees. The duo was initially taken to CHC Gurukul Narsan and later referred to AIIMS Rishikesh for advanced treatment.

Encounter After Tip-Off

According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ajai Singh, a police team received credible information about the suspects’ movements. The duo was reportedly trying to cross over into Uttar Pradesh through Purkazi when they realized they were being tailed. In an attempt to flee, they opened fire on the police. The forces retaliated, leading to their arrest after both were injured in the exchange.

Background: A Confrontation Over Misconduct

The murder of Rohit Negi stemmed from an altercation that began with a phone call. On the evening of 3rd May, Negi was attending a party when Azhar called Anya Khan, a female friend of Negi’s, and allegedly misbehaved with her. The call, placed on speaker, was heard by others at the gathering, including Negi. Enraged by the abusive language, Negi confronted Azhar over the phone.

The argument escalated, and Azhar allegedly challenged Negi to meet him at DBIT Chowk. Rohit and his friends drove to the location, unaware that Azhar and Ayush were already waiting in ambush. Upon arrival, Azhar is said to have opened fire, hitting Negi in the neck. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Negi succumbed to his injuries.

Manhunt and Murder Case

A case of murder was promptly registered at Premnagar Police Station. Given the political sensitivity of the case, multiple police teams were deployed in the region to track down the accused.

The successful apprehension marks a breakthrough in a case that has stirred political and public emotions in Uttarakhand. Further investigations are underway, and the police have stated that charges under relevant sections of the IPC—including murder and criminal conspiracy—will be pursued vigorously.