Questions raised over law and order in Himachal as it’s second murder within 24 hours, sixth in new year
Mandi (Munish Sood)
In a shocking incident during the Winter Carnival in Manali in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, a 20-year-old youth, Daksh, was stabbed to death, spreading panic in the region.
The tragedy comes within 24 hours of another murder in Chamba, raising serious concerns over public safety and law and order in the state.
The incident took place on Wednesday (January 22, 2025) night at Manu Rangshala where thousands had gathered to enjoy cultural performances as part of the ongoing Manali Winter Carnival.
Daksh was reportedly attacked backstage by a group of youths. The police arrived at the scene promptly after receiving information and took possession of the body.
While preliminary investigations suggested that the victim’s friends were involved, the identities of the suspects are yet to be confirmed.
Victim identified as Daksh from Vashisht village
The deceased has been identified as Daksh (20), a resident of Vashisht village near Manali.
Speaking to the media, Daksh’s uncle Shyamlal stated that the family had fully cooperated with the authorities upon arriving at the hospital. He recounted that while the crowd was enjoying the carnival’s festivities, his nephew was brutally stabbed backstage.
Uncle warns of protest if culprits not arrested
Shyamlal has demanded swift action from the police and issued a warning that if the culprits were not identified and arrested by Thursday morning, the body would be placed on Manali Mall Road in protest.
He also indicated that residents of the valley would join in the demonstration against the police inaction if justice was delayed.
Manali DSP KD Sharma said police teams were investigating the case and reviewing CCTV footage from the area. “We are working tirelessly to identify the culprits and they will be arrested soon,” he said.
Similar Incident Reported in Chamba
The Manali murder follows another killing in the Churah area of Chamba district on Tuesday. In that case, a man was murdered over a property dispute.
The victim’s sister-in-law has been arrested while her husband, who is also a suspect, remains at large. The woman allegedly conspired to kill the man, leaving her sister widowed.
This marks the sixth murder in Himachal Pradesh within the first month of the new year, sparking outrage and concern among citizens.
The spate of violent crimes has put the spotlight on the state’s law and order situation, urging authorities to take immediate measures to ensure public safety, said a Manali resident.
