A candidate, who was in the fray for the Mukhia's post in Kuchra panchayat of West Singhbhum district, has been allegedly beaten to death, the police said today.
The victim, Pandu Hembram, suffered serious injuries after he was allegedly beaten up by four unidentified persons on December 8 last, Superintendent of Police, Michael Raj S today said.
He was rushed to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries last night, the SP said.
Hembram's family members had not informed the police about the incident, he said.
The police came to know about it only after his death, he said.
The police has begun investigation to unearth the motive behind the incident and launched a manhunt.
Refusing to comment whether the incident was related to the ensuing Panchayat poll, he said, "We are investigating the case and trying to find out whether the victim had any dispute with anyone. No injury mark was found on the body".
The last phase of the four-phase Panchayat poll will be held in the state on December 12.
