Surajpur, India: An unusual complaint has left police officials puzzled in Surajpur district of India’s Chhattisgarh state, where a forest department fire watcher has been carrying a bag of cooked rice for over a week, claiming it was poisoned in an attempt to kill him.
The complainant, identified as Ramdhar Pandu, a fire watcher from Raisara village, has been visiting local police stations and even the Superintendent of Police’s office for the past eight days, demanding a forensic examination of the rice.
Rice Turns Red Overnight, Raises Suspicion
According to Ramdhar, the incident dates back to the evening of January 28, when his mother attended a community feast in a neighboring village. When she did not eat there, food—mainly cooked rice (locally known as bhaat)—was packed and brought home.
Since it was late at night, the family did not consume the food. However, the next morning, Ramdhar claims the rice had turned completely red, triggering fears that some toxic substance may have been mixed into it.
“When I saw the rice had changed color, I suspected that something harmful was added to it with the intention of killing me,” Ramdhar told police.
From Police Outpost to SP Office
Carrying the same rice as evidence, Ramdhar has approached the Chendra police outpost, the local police station, and later the Superintendent of Police’s office, repeatedly requesting scientific testing of the food.
Police officials admit the complaint is unusual but say it is being taken seriously.
Possible Land Dispute Angle
Ramdhar has alleged that he has an ongoing land dispute with neighbors, which he believes could be the motive behind the alleged poisoning attempt.
Confirming the complaint, SDOP Anoop Ekka said:
“The complainant’s mother brought food from a function. The rice reportedly changed color by morning, leading to suspicion. The matter has been reported, and the concerned police station has been instructed to investigate and resolve the case.”
Investigation Underway
Police say they are examining all aspects of the complaint, including the possibility of natural food spoilage, contamination, or deliberate tampering. The rice sample is expected to be sent for testing.
Until then, the mystery of the red rice—and the man carrying it across police offices—continues to raise eyebrows.