Hingoli, October 8, 2026: Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) officer Mahesh Shelke, 37, was allegedly stabbed seven times while carrying out an official operation to take over and seal a petrol pump in Maharashtra’s Hingoli district. Police have arrested multiple suspects, while the killing has drawn comparisons with the 2005 murder of IOC officer S. Manjunath.
IOC Team Had Gone to Seal Petrol Pump
Shelke, who worked as Manager (Retail Sales) and Field Officer with IndianOil and was posted in Nanded North, had gone with a team to the Sai Umesh petrol pump in Ambachondi village, Basmat tehsil.
The outlet had remained closed for nearly three months and the team had arrived to officially take over and seal it.
Argument Escalates Into Violence
According to police, the petrol pump owner was not present at the site, but members of his family and others were there when the IOC team arrived.
An argument allegedly broke out after those present sought more time before the sealing operation. Police said the confrontation then escalated, with stones allegedly thrown at the officials.
Officer Stabbed Seven Times
During the confrontation, 24-year-old Umesh Pandvir allegedly attacked Shelke with a knife.
Police said Shelke suffered seven stab wounds to his abdomen, chest and back and died at the spot.
Suspects Arrested
Police launched an immediate operation following the killing.
Four suspects, including Pandvir and his mother, were arrested within 12 hours, while reports later said all five people linked to the case had been apprehended within 24 hours.
Petroleum Minister Condemns Killing
Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri condemned the attack and said the matter had been taken up with senior Maharashtra government and police officials.
He stressed that the safety and security of personnel working in India’s energy sector must remain a priority.
IndianOil Demands Strict Action
Indian Oil Corporation and the Indian Oil Officers’ Association have sought a swift investigation and stringent action against those responsible.
The incident has also renewed concerns over the risks faced by field officers carrying out enforcement actions at fuel outlets.
Case Recalls S. Manjunath Murder
Shelke’s killing has drawn parallels with the 2005 murder of S. Manjunath, a 27-year-old IOC sales officer.
Manjunath was shot dead in Uttar Pradesh after taking action against a petrol pump over alleged fuel adulteration and returning to inspect the outlet.
Safety of Enforcement Officials Back in Focus
The latest case has revived calls for stronger security protocols when public-sector officials carry out sealing, inspection and regulatory operations.
IndianOil employees have also sought improved protection for field personnel involved in potentially confrontational enforcement duties.
Source – The Indian Express, Times of India, PTI
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