Gangster Chhota Rajan's mother passes away

Mumbai: Mother of Rajendra Sadashiv Nikalje, better known as Chhota Rajan, died on Tuesday night at Chheda Nagar in Chembur, a locality in Mumbai's eastern suburbs.

Mumbai police personnel were present in large numbers to keep an eye on all those who arrived at the funeral that took place in Chembur on Wednesday morning.

Though the Mumbai Crime Branch officials felt that Chhota Rajan may not risk coming to Mumbai for his mother's funeral, they ensured that there is a huge police presence in the area to keep a tab on people visiting to pay their last respects.

Gangster Chhota Rajan. File pic

"If not Rajan, there will be several other gangsters and developers who may turn up for the funeral. By keeping a watch we may get information about the gang's activities," said a senior police officer on conditions of anonymity.

Rajan's youngest brother, Deepak Nikalje, who is a Republican Party of India (Athvale) activist, performed the last rites.

Sources said that Mumbai police officials had asked the media to stay away from the funeral as reporting the event could lead to tension in the area.