Man stabbed after chilli powder attack in Naranpura; woman’s estranged husband, aides booked

A 32-year-old man was stabbed multiple times after chilli powder was thrown into his eyes in a daylight attack near a residential complex in the Naranpura area of Ahmedabad on Thursday, allegedly by the estranged husband of a woman with whom he was living and four unidentified accomplices. Ghatlodia police have registered an FIR for attempt to murder and criminal conspiracy, among other offences.

The victim, Ajaybhai Padhiyar, is undergoing treatment at Sola Civil Hospital. In his complaint with Ghatlodia police, Ajaybhai alleged that the attack was motivated by personal enmity stemming from the marital dispute between his friend Priyal Solanki and her husband Mihir Solanki.

As per police, Priyal had earlier been married to Mihir Solanki, but the relationship had turned acrimonious and the couple had separated. Priyal subsequently began living with Ajaybhai at his residence in Naranpura. The accused allegedly harboured resentment over this and planned the assault.

Ajaybhai stated that on December 18, around 11.30 am, he had taken Priyal on his motorcycle to Ratnamani Flats, where she had gone to cook at a friend’s residence. While waiting outside and using his mobile phone, an unknown person allegedly approached from behind and threw chilli powder on his face.

As Ajaybhai tried to get up in pain, he was struck on the back of the head with an object, causing him to fall. He alleged that Mihir Solanki then arrived, snatched a knife and stabbed him first in the back and then in the left side of his chest. The accused allegedly shouted threats, saying he would not let Ajaybhai live, and claimed he was acting on instructions from his father.

The FIR further states that three other unidentified men joined Mihir Solanki, and all five allegedly assaulted Ajaybhai with kicks, punches and weapons before fleeing the spot. Bloodied and injured, Ajaybhai raised an alarm, drawing residents out of the building. He was later rushed to Sola Civil Hospital in an emergency ambulance.

Police said Ajaybhai is conscious and his condition is stable. He has named Mihir Solanki as the main accused and said he can identify the four other assailants. Priyal Solanki and residents of Ratnamani Flats have been cited as witnesses.

An FIR has been registered at the Ghatlodia Police Station. Officials said teams are scanning CCTV footage from the area and conducting searches to trace and arrest the accused.