Lucknow / Unnao, Uttar Pradesh – In a major development in the 2020 murder case of Unnao-based journalist Shubham Mani Tripathi, the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) has arrested one of the prime accused, Kaushal Kishore Mishra, who had been on the run for nearly five years. The suspect carried a cash reward of ₹50,000 on his head.
Fugitive Caught After Long Pursuit
On Thursday, acting on a tip from informants, STF teams cornered Kaushal Kishore near the intersection of Marala Tiraha and the road leading to Azad Nagar from Shuklaganj in Unnao. He was arrested without incident after being tracked in the area where he was believed to be active recently.
Case Background
The journalist, Shubham Mani Tripathi, was shot dead during broad daylight on June 19, 2020 near Sahjani Chauraha in Gangaghat area of Unnao. Police investigations revealed long-standing enmity between Tripathi and local figure Kanhaiya Awasthi. In total, ten individuals—including Awasthi—were named in the FIR registered under sections including 302 (murder), 120B (criminal conspiracy) and others.
Kaushal Kishore, identified as an associate in the plot, absconded soon after the incident. Since then, he has been evading arrest by staying at different locations across Kanpur and Fatehpur districts, often switching disguises to avoid detection.
Statement from Investigators
Officials confirm that Kaushal Kishore (also known locally as “Baba”) was recognized from recent intelligence reports. During questioning, he reportedly admitted to having personal differences with Tripathi and corroborated involvement by others in planning the murder. The STF continues to investigate other leads in the case, including financing, logistics, and possible accomplices.
Legal Action Underway
An FIR (No. 188/2020) remains active at Gangaghat Police Station under sections 147/148/149 (unlawful assembly), 302/34 (murder and common intention), 120B (conspiracy), and others. With Kaushal now in custody, the STF is preparing to update the court and may announce further arrests as the probe deepens.
Impact and Local Response
Tripathi’s family welcomed the arrest, voicing relief that one key suspect is finally behind bars. “It brings some closure after years of uncertainty,” said a family member. Local journalist groups also applauded the STF’s efforts and pressed for swift justice against all involved.
Still, the case reflects broader issues faced by journalists in Uttar Pradesh, where reporting on crime and corruption can carry grave risks—including deadly retaliation.
What Lies Ahead
With one suspect now detained, investigators are intensifying searches for remaining accused. Forensic evidence is being re-examined, and witness statements are being revisited to strengthen the prosecution’s case. Analysts expect more arrests as STF and police pursue remaining leads in Unnao and nearby districts.
