A local cricket match in the Pedagadili area of Visakhapatnam took a tragic turn after a dispute over a run-out decision escalated into deadly violence, leaving a 21-year-old umpire dead and several others injured. The incident occurred on Sunday evening, April 5, during a T20 series involving three local teams.
The match was officiated by Dola Ajit Babu and his assistant Budumuri Chiranjeevi. During the game, a disagreement arose between batsman Ajit Babu and players of the opposing team over a non-striker run-out decision. The umpires intervened, temporarily resolving the dispute, and the match resumed.
However, after the match ended, tensions reignited when local spectator Kanta Kishore, also known as “Boxer,” confronted Ajit Babu and umpire Chiranjeevi over the earlier incident. Despite attempts by bystanders to calm the situation, Kishore became aggressive.
Police sources revealed that Kishore called the victims to a designated spot after the match. When Ajit Babu, Chiranjeevi, and several friends arrived, a confrontation ensued. Circle Inspector Malleshwar Rao stated that Kishore suddenly drew a knife and attacked the two umpires. Ajit Babu sustained severe chest injuries and died on the spot, while Chiranjeevi and others were injured trying to protect him.
The injured were initially taken to a local hospital, and Ajit Babu was later transferred to Apollo Hospital, Visakhapatnam, where he was pronounced dead.
Family Allegations: The deceased’s family claimed that the attack was premeditated, despite the earlier dispute being temporarily resolved locally. Ajit Babu’s brother told NDTV:
“The attacker was not a cricketer. He was a resident who returned in an intoxicated state and carried out the assault.”
He added:
“The matter had been settled with the help of village elders the day before. However, in the evening, Kishore lured Ajit Babu to a specific spot with a knife and attacked him.”
Following the incident, Dola Appala Raju, father of the deceased, filed a murder case at the local police station. Police confirmed that the case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code, and operations are underway to arrest the accused, Kanta Kishore.
This incident highlights how minor sports disputes can tragically escalate into violent confrontations, emphasizing the need for strict law enforcement and community vigilance.
