Surat: Singanpor police in Surat arrested a 28-year-old man for allegedly murdering his father after exposing what investigators said was an attempt by the family to pass off the killing as a suicide.The victim, Rajesh Rathod (56), a resident of Moti Ved village, allegedly had frequent disputes with his family members. According to police, tensions escalated throughout July 3, with Rathod repeatedly quarrelling with relatives despite efforts by his brother and sons to calm him down. Police said he also allegedly abused his daughter-in-law during the arguments.Later that evening, Rathod was sitting outside his house with his son, Subhash Rathod (28), a diamond worker, when another argument broke out between them. Police said Subhash, allegedly enraged during the altercation, stabbed his father with a knife.Rathod was rushed to SMIMER Hospital, where he succumbed to injuries.The following day, while recording statements, police were told by the victim’s other son, Yogesh, that Rathod had stabbed himself because of his alleged unstable mental condition. The case was initially treated as an accidental death.However, investigators grew suspicious after noticing the nature of the injuries and contradictions in the family’s version of events. Police then revisited the scene, questioned neighbours and relatives, and found discrepancies that pointed towards foul play.Deputy commissioner of police (Zone 3) Raghav Jain said the investigation revealed that the suicide claim had been fabricated. “Looking at the wounds and contradictory statements of family members, we got suspicious over this accidental death. We went to the spot and spoke to neighbours and relatives, and found the incident to be fake. During sustained questioning, Subhash confessed to killing his father,” Jain said.Police have registered a murder case against Subhash Rathod and arrested him.
