Man murdered by cousin

Nagpur: Two cousins clashed in a drunken brawl, leading to a 26-year-old youth killing his cousin at Baidyanath Square late on Monday night. The deceased, identified as Jitendra Khandare, 32, was a resident of Mhada Quarters, Nari. Imambada police have arrested accused Swapnil Ramteke, 26, a resident of New Babulkheda. Khandare’s relatives said that Ramteke and Khandare were more good friends than cousin. For the deceased as well as Ramteke’s family, it’s difficult to accept that a drunken brawl enraged Ramteke to the extent of killing his good friend. “Since childhood, both had been good friends. They would help each other in every situation. Both would drink together and would share a plate together,” said a relative. Khandare was more addicted to liquor. Relatives said that like routine, both met on Monday and had liquor together at Medical Square. Later, the two had a dinner at a small eatery at Medical Square. The duo got into an argument over some financial matter while they were walking to Ramteke’s home from Medical Square to Baidyanath Square. The argument turned into a big fight and they abused each other at the road side. Amid the fight, Ramteke hit Khandare with a massive stone and brick, causing his death on the spot. Passers-by chased and nabbed Ramteke. Khandare’s body was shifted for post mortem at Government Medical College and Mortuary by the police. Ramteke was handed over to Imambada police. Police said Khandare’s wife had left him a few months ago, after the couple could not have a child for eight years after marriage. Since then, Khandare had become more addicted to liquor. Police said Ramteke claimed that they had an argument over some money matters that enraged him and he killed Khandare. However, police are still questioning Ramteke.