GUWAHATI, Oct 27: An eight-year-old girl and her 18-month-old brother have been left without both their parents after a shooting at Hotel Bilas Inn in Guwahati’s Bora Service area on October 26 claimed five lives.
Their parents, Debarshi Bharali and Rinika Bharali, were among those killed in the firing at around 9 pm. As police investigate the incident, questions remain about who will care for the two children and what arrangements will be made for their upbringing and well-being.
The siblings lost both parents in a matter of hours, leaving uncertainty over their immediate care, accommodation, education and emotional support. Details of their current whereabouts and caregiving arrangements have not been confirmed. It is also unclear whether relatives or child-welfare authorities have taken steps to ensure their safety.
The shooting claimed five lives, including four members of the same family. The deceased were identified as Helena Bharali, her son Debarshi Ishan Kashyap, Debarshi’s wife Rinika, Helena’s brother Bhudev Bharali and Narayan Das, reportedly Bhudev’s caretaker. Satyendra Pathak, a driver, sustained injuries and is undergoing treatment at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).
Police have arrested Ghanakanta Gogoi, who had reportedly taken Hotel Bilas Inn on lease around a year ago. Guwahati Police Commissioner Partha Sarathi Mahanta said Gogoi was apprehended within an hour of the incident and that the .32-calibre pistol allegedly used in the shooting had been seized.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the firing may have followed a dispute over the hotel’s expired lease and discussions on its renewal. Reports have also pointed to alleged unpaid rent and outstanding electricity dues, though police are still examining the circumstances surrounding the incident.
With the investigation continuing, the children’s immediate safety and access to stable, long-term care remain pressing concerns. However, the arrangements for their care and the support available to them have yet to be confirmed by the family or authorities.
