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An Indian caregiver working for an elderly couple in Jerusalem was killed inside their residence after an alleged sharp-object attack, with Israeli prosecutors now pursuing murder charges against a suspect.Rajeev Acharya died on July 23, 2026, after suffering multiple injuries and severe blood loss, according to a communication from the Embassy of India in Tel Aviv sent to his family.Israeli authorities have indicted Avior Zaken, who has been identified in an appeal by Indian community workers as the grandson of the elderly couple Acharya was caring for. Zaken remains in custody while the case moves through the Israeli courts.The Indian embassy said Zaken faces a charge of premeditated murder under Section 300(a) of the Israeli Penal Code.According to details cited in the community appeal and embassy communication, Acharya was resting in his room when he was allegedly attacked with a sharp object. He is said to have tried to defend himself and escape the residence before succumbing to his injuries.Investigators allege that the suspect later attempted to conceal the killing and left the scene with the weapon and other evidence.
Acharya's death has also prompted calls for greater protection for Indian workers employed as live-in caregivers in Israel. Community representatives say workers living inside employers' homes can face particular vulnerabilities because their work and accommodation are tied to the same location.An appeal issued on August 18 called for the case to be prosecuted fully and urged authorities to provide financial assistance and compensation to Acharya's family.The Embassy of India is monitoring the proceedings and working with Israeli authorities on consular and welfare assistance, while keeping Acharya's family informed about developments in the case.
