Rajiv Popat

Mar 19, 2025 | itv.com | Rajiv Popat

A 15-year-old boy on trial accused of murdering a pensioner told the court he "never meant" to hurt him. The boy, who cannot be named because of his age, told a jury he fell on 80-year-old Bhim Kohli at Franklin Park in Braunstone Town near Leicester, on 1 September last year. Prosecutors claim the 15-year-old racially abused, punched and repeatedly kicked Mr Kohli, who had been walking his dog.

Aug 9, 2024 | itv.com | Rajiv Popat

ITV Central's Rajiv Popat spent the day in Leicester speaking to members of the community about the importance of Diwali celebrations. Every year 40,000 people flock to Belgrave Road in Leicester for the biggest Diwali celebrations outside of India. The colourful festivities take place on two separate days, with the lights switch-on followed by Diwali Day two weeks later. But, due financial problems at Leicester City Council, the celebration is now under threat.

Feb 28, 2024 | itv.com | Rajiv Popat

An inmate at HMP Leicester has told ITV News he "won't be back" as he believes he will be able to break the cycle of re-offending with the help of the prison's employment scheme. The resettlement hub at HMP Leicester gives prisoners a chance to meet local employers and talk about future opportunities. One ex-offender who will benefit from the scheme is 'Gareth', whose name we have changed to protect his identity.

Jun 22, 2023 | itv.com | Rajiv Popat