JAMMU: Police have arrested a man in connection with the murder of his friend in the Raghunath area of Jammu, following what authorities described as a bizarre incident triggered by a birthday cake dispute.
The accused, identified as Vijay Kumar (name changed), was taken into custody early Monday morning after a complaint was filed by the victim's family members. The incident is said to have occurred late Sunday during a private birthday gathering at a residence in the Raghubir Nagar locality.
According to police sources, the victim, named Pankaj Thakur (28), had been attending the birthday function of the accused when an argument reportedly broke out between the two. The exact nature of the disagreement remains unclear, but witnesses say the situation escalated after Pankaj reportedly smeared birthday cake on Vijay's face, which the accused took as a grave insult.
In an enraged state, Vijay allegedly attacked Pankaj with a sharp object, inflicting multiple injuries. Pankaj was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was declared brought dead by the medical team. An FIR has been registered under Sections 302 (murder) and 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code against Vijay.
The Jammu district police said the accused was arrested from his home in the early hours of Monday after a search operation was launched following the incident. During interrogation, Vijay allegedly confessed to the act, telling officers he 'lost control' after the cake incident.
Local residents expressed shock at theturn of events, saying both men were known to them and had been friends for several years. 'They used to meet regularly and share everything,' said one neighbour who requested anonymity. 'We cannot understand how such a small matter could lead to something so terrible.'
Jammu SP Rajesh Sharma confirmed the arrest and stated that the investigation is ongoing. He added that the case would be tried under the relevant provisions of law and urged citizens to maintain peace and avoid getting provoked over minor disputes.
The victim's family has demanded strict action against the accused. Pankaj's father told reporters outside the hospital that his son was a soft-spoken person who never entertained ill-will toward anyone, and he found it hard to believe that someone he considered a close friend could orchestrate his death over a moment of irresponsibility.
Police have also secured the crime scene for further forensic examination. The case has drawn significant attention in the city, with several community leaders calling for greater emphasis on conflict resolution and mental health awareness.
