Missing man’s body found in Jwalamukhi forest

The body of 27-year-old Pankaj Kumar, who had been missing since January 18, was found today in the Kalidhar forest in Jwalamukhi, Kangra district. The deceased’s family had lodged a missing report at Panchrukhi police station on January 19. Due to the severe condition of the body, identification was difficult, but it was confirmed by the family through a tattoo on the deceased’s hand. After the body was found, the family and villagers protested by placing the body on the national highway. The deceased’s parents, Gayatri Devi and Suresh Kumar, accused the police of negligence, claiming that Pankaj’s life could have been saved had the authorities acted sooner.

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The family believes this was a planned murder and has named three individuals in connection with the kidnapping and killing. The police have registered an FIR and further investigation was underway. Pankaj, who worked as a blood sample collector and a part-time Zomato delivery driver, had been missing for several days and his motorcycle was found some distance from his home.

A post-mortem examination has been conducted, and the police have ordered a viscera examination. DNA samples of the parents have been collected to confirm the identity of the body. The Jwalamukhi DSP, RP Jaswal, said some suspects have been detained and the investigation was ongoing. “The truth will be revealed once the DNA results come in, and if murder is confirmed, strict action will be taken against those responsible. A case has been registered under sections 140(1), 103(1), and 3(5) BNS,” he added.