Ludhiana: Sarpanch dies, suicide likely, say police

Police said inquest proceedings have been initiated on the statement of his wife, who has not expressed any suspicion of foul play

The sitting sarpanch of a village in Ludhiana district was found dead late Wednesday night, with police suspecting suicide. According to Ludhiana rural police, the 40-year-old deceased was brought dead to Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), Ludhiana.

The deceased was elected sarpanch as an independent in the recent panchayat elections. (HT Photo)

“Prima facie, it appears that he died by hanging. The exact cause of death will be ascertained after the post-mortem examination,” said Inspector Sahibmeet Singh, station house officer (SHO), Jodhan police station.

The deceased was elected sarpanch as an independent in the recent panchayat elections. Police said inquest proceedings have been initiated on the statement of his wife, who has not expressed any suspicion of foul play.

Sources in the police, however, said the deceased had been under stress for the past few months due to financial and family-related issues.

He is survived by his father, wife and three children.