Loharu suicide case transferred to Crime Branch

The suicide case of a Dalit student at a college in Fartia Bhim village of Loharu subdivision in Bhiwani district has been transferred to the State Crime Branch for further investigation.

The family of the victim had demanded a probe from an independent agency, like the CBI, casting doubts over the ongoing investigation by the Bhiwani police, though it had arrested two accused — Hanuman Singh and his son Rahul — and also recorded the statements of some persons.

Bhiwani police spokesperson Abhishek Singh confirmed that the case had been handed over to the Crime Branch headquartered at Panchkula. The record of investigation and related material seized by the police during the investigation had been transferred to the branch.

Advocate Rajat Kalsan said the family had written to the Chief Minister, demanding the shifting of the probe. He said the family was dissatisfied with the investigation and alleged that some influential persons were trying to interfere in the probe.

Kalsan criticised the progress of the investigation, stating that it seemed to have stagnated, suggesting that the investigating officer was under pressure.

The case involves the suicide of Diksha, studying in the fifth semester (undergraduation) at Sharda College. Her father had lodged a complaint with the police that his daughter committed suicide on December 24 after she was allegedly barred from appearing in an examination over pending fee by the college authorities. The complainant also alleged harassment by a youth and some other persons.

The police registered an FIR on December 27 and started investigation. The Loharu Congress MLA, Rajbir Fartia, who is president of the society which governs the college, had also been questioned by the police in the matter.

Chairpersons of the State Commission for Women and State Commission for the SC had also visited the victim's family.