Emoji reaction to WhatsApp post leads to murder of businessman in Suryapet

A businessman in Suryapet was allegedly murdered following a dispute over a WhatsApp emoji in a community group. The victim was attacked during a meeting with rival faction members. Police have registered a case and begun investigations.

Suryapet: A businessman, Manupuri Krupakar (43), was allegedly murdered in broad daylight on Tuesday after a post in a WhatsApp group linked to a district-level community body triggered tensions.

The dispute began when Appam Srinivas, district president of the community, shared an update about the upcoming elections scheduled for August 3. Krupakar responded with a clapping emoji — a gesture that reportedly enraged Sriramulu, a leader of a rival faction. Sriramulu allegedly called Krupakar late on Monday night and issued threats using abusive language.

---

Seeking to resolve the matter amicably, Krupakar arrived at the community hall on Tuesday morning to meet members of the rival group in the presence of elders. However, the meeting turned violent when Krupakar was allegedly assaulted by Sriramulu, his son Dhanunjay, and four others.

Though the attackers arranged for Krupakar to be shifted to Suryapet Area Hospital, he succumbed to injuries en route.

Krupakar is survived by his wife Vijayalakshmi, daughter Amulya, and son Ajay. Local police have registered a case and launched an investigation.