Guwahati Hotel Shooting: 5 Killed, Leaseholder Ghanakanta Gogoi Arrested

Police arrested leaseholder Ghanakanta Gogoi after a shooting at Guwahati’s Ulubari Hotel Bilas Inn on 26 October 2026 that killed five people. The victims were hotel owner Helena Bharali, her son Devarshi, Devarshi’s wife Rinika, relative Narayan Das and Bharali’s brother Bhudev.

The incident followed a dispute over a lease signed on 10 September 2025, with a monthly rent of about ₹1.8 lakh. Renovations carried out by Gogoi sparked disagreements over use of the premises and required facilities, and an argument erupted before a scheduled meeting to resolve the issues.

CCTV footage shows a man entering a shop and firing point‑blank; the victim Satyendra Pathak, hit in the shoulder, fell but survived. Pathak, 43, is receiving treatment at GMCH. Four people were inside the reception, and two were injured on the approach road, one of whom later died.

The gun used in the crime was seized and Gogoi was taken into police custody. The Special Investigation Team, headed by Joint Commissioner Ankur Jain, will examine forensic evidence, witness statements and the circumstances that led to the shooting.

State Congress president Gaurav Gogoi condemned the attack and warned that it signals a deterioration of law and order in Guwahati. Jorhat MP expressed deep sorrow and urged Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to address rising crime.

The SIT is expected to submit its report within 30 days, with findings due by 15 November 2026, to determine liability and recommend further action.