Gurdaspur: Teen's Cremation Held After 12 Days Amidst Encounter Controversy
The mortal remains of 19-year-old Ranjit Singh were finally consigned to flames at his native village Adhian in Gurdaspur district on Monday, marking a somber end to a 12-day ordeal. The cremation took place amidst heightened tensions and demands for justice, following the teenager's death in an alleged police encounter connected to the killing of two police officers near the Pakistan border in the district.
Family's Reluctance and Final Decision
Initially, family members had steadfastly refused to hold the cremation until a First Information Report (FIR) was registered against the policemen allegedly involved in the February 25 encounter. However, on Monday, Harvinder Singh Malhi, the victim's uncle, revealed that the family made the difficult decision to proceed with the final rites due to the deteriorating condition of the body. This turn of events underscores the emotional and logistical challenges faced by the grieving relatives.
Public Outcry and Demands for Justice
A large gathering of people, including nihangs, farmers, and members of various social and political organizations, assembled during the cremation to demand justice for Ranjit Singh's family. Notably, the victim's father was unable to attend the ceremony as he is currently abroad, adding another layer of sorrow to the proceedings. The crowd's presence highlighted widespread community concern over the circumstances surrounding the young man's death.
Legal Proceedings and Judicial Inquiry
Bhajanpreet Singh, the counsel for Ranjit Singh's family, provided updates on the ongoing legal efforts. He confirmed that a judicial inquiry into the alleged encounter is currently underway. Additionally, the family has formally requested an inspection of CCTV footage from February 24 to March 4. This request aims to verify reports of suspicious activity, including the alleged presence of external police personnel from other districts at the hospital on the night Ranjit Singh's body was brought there.
Suspension of Dharna and Background of the Case
In response to the cremation, an action committee formed to seek justice for the family has temporarily suspended its call for a dharna. The dharna was initially organized to pressure authorities into registering an FIR against the police officials allegedly involved in the encounter. The case dates back to February 22, when police arrested Ranjit Singh and his friend Dilawar Singh for the murders of ASI Gurnam Singh and Home Guard jawan Ashok Kumar. While Ranjit Singh died on February 25, another suspect, Inderjit Singh, was arrested the following day, further complicating the investigation.
The cremation marks a pivotal moment in this ongoing saga, as the family and community continue to seek answers and accountability in the wake of this tragic incident.
