Five people were killed and one person was injured in a shooting at Hotel Bilas Inn in the Ulubari–Bora Service area of Guwahati on Monday night, October 26, triggering a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deadly incident.

Among those killed were hotel property owner Helena Bharali, her son Debarshi Bharali, and 48-year-old Narayan Das. Two other victims were also reported dead. The injured person, identified as 42-year-old Satyendra Pathak, is undergoing treatment at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) and is reported to be in stable condition.

Preliminary Probe Points to Property Dispute

According to preliminary findings cited by Guwahati Police Commissioner Partha Sarathi Mahanta, the shooting may have been linked to a dispute involving the hotel’s property and lease agreement.

Police have arrested the accused, identified in media reports as Ghanakanta Gogoi, who was reportedly associated with the hotel as its leaseholder. Investigators have also seized the licensed .32-bore pistol allegedly used in the attack.

The investigation is expected to establish the sequence of events and the circumstances that led to the shooting. The suspected motive remains subject to the findings of the ongoing investigation.

Concern Over the Welfare of Two Young Siblings

The tragedy has also raised serious concerns about the welfare of two young siblings whose parents were reportedly among those killed in the incident.

Their immediate care arrangements and long-term guardianship have not been independently confirmed. Ensuring their safety, emotional well-being and access to appropriate family or child welfare support will be particularly important in the aftermath of the tragedy.

Police Investigation Continues

The incident has shocked Guwahati and renewed attention on the deadly consequences of disputes involving property and business arrangements. Police are continuing their investigation to establish the full facts of the case.

NE Haflong Times will continue to monitor the investigation and provide verified updates as further information becomes available.

Source: The Hindu and reports citing Guwahati Police. Some details, including the suspected motive and the children’s care arrangements, remain subject to official confirmation.