In a shocking incident that has stirred public outrage, contractor Mohan Chavan was forcibly abducted from his office in Eshwer Nagar, Hubli, by a group of ten individuals. Police officials have confirmed that the motive behind the kidnapping stems from unpaid dues related to government subcontracts.
Chavan, known for securing public tenders and subcontracting them to smaller firms, had reportedly failed to release payments to several parties involved in recent projects.
Tensions escalated when repeated demands were ignored, leading to what police describe as a “retaliatory kidnapping.”
Viral CCTV Footage Captures Dramatic Abduction
According to eyewitnesses and CCTV footage that has gone viral, the kidnappers stormed into Chavan’s office, dragged him outside, and forced him into a waiting vehicle. The footage has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for swift justice.
MLA Mahesh Tenginkai visited Chavan’s office and met with his brothers to assess the situation. He instructed police officials to treat the case with urgency and ensure a thorough investigation.
Repeat Offense Raises Alarm
This is not the first time Chavan has faced such threats. Police sources revealed that he was previously kidnapped by an individual named Basappa, also over non-payment of subcontractor dues. That incident, though resolved quietly, now appears to be part of a troubling pattern.
Vehicle Trail and Ransom Demand Deepen Investigation
Further investigation led police to Garag Cross near Dharwad, where a Crooser vehicle suspected to be linked to the kidnapping was found abandoned. However, the main vehicle used in the abduction remains untraced.
Adding a new layer of urgency, police have confirmed that the kidnappers reportedly demanded a ransom of ₹1 crore for Chavan’s release, according to local Kannada daily Samyukta Karnataka.
Authorities have since apprehended some suspects, and efforts are underway to recover the missing vehicle and uncover the full extent of the conspiracy.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Probe
Locals gathered outside a government building shortly after the latest incident, demanding transparency and stronger safeguards for contractors and workers involved in public infrastructure projects. The case has reignited concerns over payment irregularities and the risks faced by subcontractors in high-stakes environments.
Police are currently interrogating suspects and reviewing Chavan’s financial records. His condition remains undisclosed as the investigation continues.