- Police have launched a search operation to trace the two accused
Punjab Newsline | Ludhiana
A 36-year-old man from Punjab died under suspicious circumstances in Himachal Pradesh’s popular tourist destination, Manali, triggering grief and raising serious questions over the role of his companions.
The deceased, Mandeep Sharma, a resident of Mundian Kalan in Ludhiana, had travelled to Manali in Kullu district along with two friends. The incident came to light when news of his death reached his family, leading to an outcry and allegations against the friends who accompanied him.
Based on a complaint filed by the victim’s brother, Amardeep Sharma, the Jamalpur police in Ludhiana have registered a case against Rohit Verma, a resident of Friends Colony in Ramgarh, and Ajay Sharma of Shimla Colony in Kailash Nagar. According to the complaint, Mandeep had left for Manali on March 28 with the two accused in connection with work related to a vehicle deal and recovery of pending payments.
Family members said they last spoke to Mandeep on Saturday afternoon, and everything seemed normal. However, contact was suddenly lost by Sunday evening. When repeated attempts were made to reach his friends later that night, they initially did not respond. After persistent efforts, a video call was made during which the friends allegedly showed Mandeep as if he was sleeping, misleading the family despite his critical condition.
Preliminary investigation has revealed that the trio was involved in a dispute with an unidentified person in Manali following a car collision. During the altercation, Mandeep reportedly sustained serious injuries. The family has accused the friends of negligence, alleging that despite his condition, they failed to take him to a hospital in time.
When his health deteriorated on Sunday evening, he was taken to a doctor in Mandi, who referred him to Ludhiana. However, upon arrival at Fortis Hospital in Ludhiana, doctors declared him dead.
Police have launched a search operation to trace the two accused, and further investigation into the matter is underway.