Lucknow/Ghaziabad: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday strongly condemned the murder of a 17-year-old boy in Ghaziabad, saying acts of violence carried out “under the guise of friendship” cannot be accepted in society. The Chief Minister made the remarks while addressing a public gathering in Bijnor, days after the killing of Surya Pratap Chauhan in Ghaziabad’s Khoda area triggered widespread outrage across the state.

Referring to the incident, Adityanath said that friendship should never become a reason for crime or brutality. He also stressed the importance of parental responsibility, urging families to guide children away from criminal tendencies and anti-social behaviour. According to police officials, the teenager was allegedly stabbed following a dispute linked to a motorcycle issue. Investigators claimed the accused and his associates planned the attack after calling the victim to the area.

The murder had sparked tension in parts of Ghaziabad, with heavy police deployment carried out to maintain law and order. Authorities launched multiple raids in search of the accused soon after the incident. In a major development, the prime accused, identified as Asad, was later killed in a police encounter during an operation conducted by Uttar Pradesh Police. Officials claimed the accused opened fire on police personnel while attempting to escape, prompting retaliatory action.

The state government has maintained that strict action will be taken against anyone attempting to disturb public peace or engage in violent crimes. The incident has also reignited debate over rising youth violence and the growing involvement of teenagers in serious criminal activities. The victim’s family has demanded strict punishment for all those involved in the murder. Police officials said further investigation into the case is ongoing.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.