Chhota Rajan: From Dawood Ibrahim’s Sidekick to Deadly Rival
Rajan, originally a protege of the notorious underworld don Dawood Ibrahim, later became his fiercest adversary. Known for his involvement in numerous high-profile crimes, Rajan’s criminal empire spanned decades and crossed international borders.
Chhota RajanDawood IbrahimMumbai UnderworldGang WarReal Estate MafiaReal Estate MumbaiOct 23, 2024
Early Days and Rise to Power
Chhota Rajan started his career in crime as a protégé of Dawood Ibrahim, quickly rising through the ranks in Mumbai’s underworld. For many years, he worked closely with Dawood, managing his operations in the city. This period saw Rajan involved in various criminal activities, including extortion, smuggling, and drug trafficking.
The 1993 Mumbai Blasts and the Split
The relationship between Rajan and Dawood soured after the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts, where Dawood was allegedly the mastermind behind the attacks. Rajan publicly broke ties with Dawood, denouncing the blasts as anti-national. This public split ignited a fierce and bloody gang war in Mumbai, with Rajan becoming one of Dawood’s most dangerous adversaries.
Assassinations and Gang Rivalry
After parting ways with Dawood, Chhota Rajan’s gang became involved in a series of high-profile assassinations targeting Dawood’s associates. These killings were part of a protracted underworld feud that resulted in numerous high-profile murders across India and even abroad. One of the most infamous crimes linked to Rajan is the murder of investigative journalist Jyotirmoy Dey (J. Dey) in 2011. Dey was shot dead in broad daylight in Mumbai, and Rajan was convicted for orchestrating the murder. The Netflix series 'Scoop' highlights this case, exploring the role of the press and police in the investigation.
Extortion and Smuggling Rackets
Rajan’s criminal empire was built on a foundation of extortion, smuggling, and organized crime. He and his gang demanded protection money from businesses, real estate developers, and even Bollywood personalities. During the 1980s and 1990s, Rajan’s extortion rackets were particularly feared in Mumbai, making him a formidable presence in the city’s underworld.
Narrow Escape in Bangkok (2000)
In 2000, Dawood’s men attempted to assassinate Rajan in Bangkok, Thailand. He narrowly escaped the attack, which was allegedly planned by Dawood’s close associate, Chhota Shakeel. The attack marked a significant moment in the ongoing gang rivalry, cementing Rajan’s status as a key figure in the underworld.
Capture and Extradition to India (2015)
Chhota Rajan was arrested in Bali, Indonesia, in 2015 after evading law enforcement for over two decades. His capture was a major breakthrough for Indian authorities. He was extradited to India and tried for multiple crimes, including the J. Dey murder case and several extortion and smuggling charges.
Involvement in Real Estate Mafia
Rajan’s gang was also deeply involved in Mumbai’s real estate mafia, engaging in illegal land deals and threatening property developers. His network played a significant role in controlling certain areas of Mumbai, where he extracted protection money from local builders and businesses.
International Operations
Rajan’s criminal activities were not limited to India. He had established an extensive network abroad, especially in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. His gang was involved in smuggling, drug trafficking, and money laundering on an international scale, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most feared gangsters in India.
Chhota Rajan’s criminal career is marked by violence, rivalry, and his transition from Dawood Ibrahim’s right-hand man to one of his most dangerous adversaries. His involvement in high-profile assassinations, extortion rackets, and underworld wars made him a figure of both fear and intrigue in the Indian underworld.
Recent Developments
In a recent development, the Bombay High Court has granted Rajan bail in the 2001 Jaya Shetty murder case. Rajan, who had been convicted earlier this year and sentenced to life imprisonment, was given relief by a division bench comprising Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Prithviraj Chavan. This decision has rekindled discussions about the complex and often controversial nature of the Indian legal system and its handling of underworld figures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Chhota Rajan?
Chhota Rajan, born as Rajendra Sadashiv Nikalje, is one of India’s most notorious gangsters. His criminal career spans several decades and includes involvement in high-profile crimes, extortion, smuggling, and drug trafficking.
What was Chhota Rajan's relationship with Dawood Ibrahim?
Originally a close associate of Dawood Ibrahim, Chhota Rajan later became his rival after the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts. The split led to a bloody gang war in Mumbai that lasted for years.
What are some of the most infamous crimes linked to Chhota Rajan?
Some of the most infamous crimes linked to Chhota Rajan include the murder of investigative journalist Jyotirmoy Dey in 2011 and the assassination of Dawood Ibrahim’s associates. He is also known for his involvement in extortion, smuggling, and real estate mafia activities.
Where was Chhota Rajan arrested and extradited from?
Chhota Rajan was arrested in Bali, Indonesia, in 2015 after evading law enforcement for over two decades. He was extradited to India and tried for multiple crimes, including the J. Dey murder case and several extortion and smuggling charges.
What recent legal developments have affected Chhota Rajan?
In a recent development, the Bombay High Court has granted Chhota Rajan bail in the 2001 Jaya Shetty murder case. Rajan had been convicted earlier this year and sentenced to life imprisonment.
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