Bhiwani: The final rites of Manisha, the 19-year-old teacher whose death has triggered widespread outrage in Haryana, were performed on Thursday morning at her native village, Dhani Laxman in Bhiwani district. Her body, which had undergone a third autopsy at Delhi’s AIIMS, was brought back to the village early in the morning. Family members and villagers bid her a final farewell at the local cremation ground around 8 a.m.
The cremation came only after the victim’s family secured two major demands from the state government: a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the case and a fresh postmortem at AIIMS, Delhi. Earlier, examinations had already been carried out at Bhiwani Civil Hospital and Rohtak PGI.
Family’s Ultimatum Pressures Authorities
For days, villagers had refused to allow the cremation, insisting that the matter be handed over to the CBI. They also raised doubts about earlier postmortem reports and demanded an independent medical examination in Delhi. With strong support from farmer unions and local leaders, the community warned of a large-scale protest if their demands were ignored.
Faced with growing pressure, Chief Minister Naib Saini announced on social media that the case would indeed be transferred to the CBI, assuring the family that justice would not be compromised. Hours later, officials also confirmed that the body was sent to AIIMS for the third postmortem, fulfilling the second demand.
Lawrence Gang Stirs Controversy
Meanwhile, the case took a sensational turn after gangster Goldie Dhillo, an associate of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, made a provocative statement on social media. In his post, Dhillo alleged that Manisha had been “brutally murdered” and warned that if the authorities failed to act, the gang would step in to ensure justice. The post quickly went viral, drawing both concern and condemnation. Authorities, however, have not commented on the threats, calling it a matter under review.
Protest Ends, Village Returns to Calm
With both demands met, Manisha’s grandfather Ram Kishan urged the villagers to conclude their protest and allow her funeral to proceed. “We wanted justice for our daughter, and our demands have been accepted. Now we only wish to give her peace,” he said. Farmer leader Suresh Kauth, who had supported the family, also appealed to the gathering to disperse. The villagers responded unanimously, raising their hands in agreement, and returned to their homes.
The case remains under the spotlight, not only for the disturbing circumstances of the young teacher’s death but also for the unexpected involvement of criminal gangs and the political pressure it has created.
