Couple jumps into Sutlej at Anni, search underway

A married couple is feared to have drowned after jumping into the Sutlej River near the Behna-Maholi Bridge in Anni subdivision on Wednesday, police said.

Anni DSP Rajeev Mehta said a team from the Luhri police post launched a search and rescue operation along the riverbanks.

He said the couple has been identified as Duni Chand, 34, of Batana Bhale in Karsog tehsil, Mandi district and his wife Sonia, 27. The two were living in rented accommodation in Anni market, where Duni Chand worked at a local salon.

According to police investigations, the incident follows a dispute between the couple on Tuesday night during a small family gathering at their rented quarters. Relatives Dhani Ram and Mohan Lal intervened and calmed both parties before retiring for the night.

The following morning, Duni Chand noticed Sonia was missing and, alarmed, informed his cousin before searching for her in the Behna area. Witnesses said Sonia ran towards the Sutlej River and jumped in despite attempts to stop her. Duni Chand also jumped into the river in a desperate attempt to save her. Dhani Ram alerted police.

Authorities recovered Sonia’s scarf and Duni Chand’s mobile phone from the site. Eyewitness statements have been recorded and a case has been registered.

The DSP said the search operation is ongoing and the circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.