Akola District, MAHARASHTRA :
Akola:
Senior Maharashtra Congress leader Hidayatullah Patel died on Wednesday morning after sustaining fatal stab injuries inside a mosque in Akola district. Patel, vice president of the Maharashtra Congress and former Akola District Congress Committee president, was attacked on Tuesday afternoon after offering namaz at Jama Masjid in Mohala village under Akot taluka.
Police said the attack occurred around 1.30 pm as Patel stepped out of the mosque. An assailant used a sharp weapon, inflicting deep injuries to Patel’s neck and chest. Videos circulating on social media showed the 66 year old leader emerging from the mosque with blood soaked clothes. Locals rushed him to a private hospital in Akot, where doctors admitted him to the intensive care unit. He succumbed to injuries during treatment early Wednesday.
Police identified the accused as Ubed Khan Kalu Khan alias Razik Khan Patel, aged 22. Six police teams conducted search operations across the area and arrested the suspect on Tuesday evening from Panaj village. Officials said preliminary findings point to an old enmity behind the attack.
The Maharashtra Congress termed the killing a result of political animosity and described Patel’s death as a grave loss to public life. Party leaders across levels condemned the violence and demanded strict punishment for the accused. Senior Congress figures highlighted concerns over safety, law, and order in the state.
Security arrangements were tightened in Mohala village and Akot city following the incident. Senior police officers reviewed the situation to prevent further unrest.
Hidayatullah Patel held a long association with the Congress organisation. He contested the Akola Lok Sabha seat in 2014 and 2019. His work focused on district level organisation building and local civic issues. Party colleagues described him as accessible, disciplined, and rooted in community service.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Report> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / January 07th, 2026