Sonarpur Murder: Man Stabbed to Death Over Loud Music Dispute
A shocking incident in Kolkata’s southern suburbs has left residents horrified after a 35-year-old man was stabbed to death following an argument over loud music during Kali Puja celebrations. The incident, now known as the Sonarpur murder, took place on Wednesday night in Kustia, under the jurisdiction of Sonarpur police station.
Victim Identified as Sanatan Naskar
The victim, Sanatan Naskar, worked as a peon in a private office. According to police, he was attacked by a group of revellers led by Pintu Saha, a local resident, after he switched off a sound system that had been playing continuously for three nights.
Police sources said the loud music had caused significant disturbance in the neighbourhood, with one family even complaining that it was affecting a heart patient at home. Responding to their concern, Sanatan — who owned the sound equipment — decided to turn off the speakers late Wednesday night and return home.
Music Row Turns Deadly
This act allegedly enraged Pintu Saha and his associates, who had rented the sound system for the Kali Puja celebrations. Eyewitnesses said they barged into Sanatan’s house shortly after midnight, demanding that he restart the music.
When Sanatan refused, an argument broke out that quickly turned violent. The group allegedly assaulted his mother and brother before turning on him. During the chaos, one of the attackers pulled out a knife and stabbed Sanatan multiple times, police said.
Neighbours rushed to the scene after hearing screams and took Sanatan to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead.
Locals Catch Suspects Attempting to Flee
As word of the Sonarpur murder spread, angered residents gathered at the scene. Local eyewitnesses said that Pintu and his wife tried to flee the area soon after the stabbing but were caught by locals and handed over to Sonarpur police.
“They were running with their bags when people spotted them. The residents didn’t let them escape and held them until police arrived,” said a witness.
Police have arrested Pintu Saha and his wife, while a search is on for two of Pintu’s relatives who allegedly participated in the attack.
Police Investigation and Forensic Probe
A senior officer from Baruipur Police District confirmed that forensic samples have been collected from the crime scene, including blood traces and the suspected weapon used in the attack. “We are verifying CCTV footage from nearby houses and shops. Preliminary findings suggest the motive was anger over switching off the sound system,” the officer said.
He added that post-mortem reports are awaited and that charges of murder, criminal assault, and unlawful assembly have been filed against the accused.
Noise Pollution Concerns During Festivals
The incident has reignited the debate over noise pollution during religious festivals in Kolkata. Residents of Sonarpur allege that despite repeated police warnings, several pandals play music late into the night, often violating decibel limits set by the West Bengal Pollution Control Board.
“People were playing DJ songs till 2 AM for three nights. When Sanatan finally switched it off, he paid with his life,” said a neighbour.
Activists have urged authorities to strictly enforce noise control laws during festivities to prevent similar tragedies.
Community in Shock
The quiet locality of Kustia remains tense following the murder. Police patrolling has been intensified, and senior officers have appealed for calm. Sanatan’s family, devastated by the loss, demanded justice and stronger action against the culprits.
“This is not just a murder — it’s a wake-up call about how intolerance and noise culture can destroy lives,” said a local resident.
As investigations continue, the Sonarpur murder serves as a grim reminder of how a simple act of civic responsibility turned into a fatal confrontation.
