Haryana hands over probe into Bhiwani playschool teacher's death to CBI
Amid widespread protests over her death, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday announced the decision on social media platform X. 'Based on the family's demand, the Haryana government is handing over the case to the CBI for an impartial investigation. Complete justice will be ensured in this case,' he stated.
He further added, 'To ensure justice for our daughter from Bhiwani and her family, the state government and police administration are working with full seriousness and transparency. I am personally monitoring the case and receiving regular updates.'
According to the family, the 19-year-old had left home on August 11 to visit a nursing college in Singhani to inquire about admission. When she did not return by evening, her father contacted the police through Dial-112, Haryana's emergency response system. Family members allege that police accompanied them to the college but only questioned three intoxicated men who claimed they had not seen her and that the college had closed at 1 pm.
Her body was discovered in a field in Bhiwani's Singhani village on August 13.
Earlier, villagers from Dhani Laxman had refused to allow the woman's cremation until those responsible for her alleged 'murder' were arrested. They had also demanded a CBI probe, expressing dissatisfaction with the Haryana Police's investigation, which pointed to a possible suicide.
In response to growing unrest, heavy police force had been deployed in the area, and internet services were suspended in Bhiwani and Charkhi Dadri districts for two days, starting Tuesday.
Former village sarpanch Atma Ram said, 'Not only our villagers, but people from neighbouring villages also gathered on Tuesday morning to oppose any attempt to cremate her.' He criticized the police response, stating, 'From the beginning, the police failed to conduct a swift and fair investigation.'
He added, 'Instead of returning empty-handed, the police should have insisted on entering the college and conducting a thorough search. Had they done so, they might have found a clue.'
Villagers have alleged that the suicide theory was being promoted to calm public outrage, especially among students who have staged protests across the state.
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