Hyderabad IT Professionals Push Colleague Into Pool, Kill Him Over Grudge at Office Party

In a shocking incident in Ghatkesar, Hyderabad, four individuals, including three IT professionals, have been arrested in connection with the murder of their colleague, Gajambikal Ajay Teja, during a birthday party at a farmhouse. The incident occurred on September 1, 2024, when Teja, who could not swim, was pushed into a pool by two of the accused. The suspects initially attempted to frame the act as an accidental drowning.

Party Turns Deadly: Professional Rivalry Leads to Murder

According to Ghatkesar police, the primary suspects, Ranjith Reddy and Sai Kumar, had long-standing professional disputes with Teja. The tension between them escalated during the party, leading to the fatal incident. Police also arrested Srikanth, the manager of the IT firm, for illegally serving alcohol at the event without proper permissions, as required by local excise laws. Additionally, the farmhouse owner, Venkatesh, was taken into custody for failing to implement safety measures around the pool.

Birthday Celebration Ends in Tragedy

The birthday party, organized by Srikanth to celebrate his birthday and a recent project completion, began as a festive event. Invitations were sent out in early August, and the gathering took place on the night of August 31. At around 12:30 a.m. on September 1, Ranjith and Sai led Teja outside and pushed him into the pool, then returned to the party. Teja’s absence went unnoticed until an hour later, when he was found unconscious in the pool. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Investigation Uncovers Intentional Killing

Initially considered an accidental drowning, the investigation shifted to a murder case after police discovered inconsistencies in the suspects' accounts. Upon questioning, Ranjith and Sai admitted to deliberately pushing Teja into the pool due to their personal grievances. Srikanth and Venkatesh were charged for their roles in facilitating the unsafe and illegal aspects of the party. All four individuals are currently in judicial custody for 14 days as the investigation continues.

The tragic death of Ajay Teja has left the community in shock, with further legal action expected as the case unfolds.