In a tragic incident highlighting the growing drug menace in the region, the body of an 18-year-old youth was discovered in the agricultural fields of Ali Mohammad village in Sirsa district on Friday. The deceased has been identified as Preetam, a resident of the neighbouring Phoolkan village. Police suspect the cause of death to be a drug overdose, specifically of “chitta” (heroin).
According to police reports, Preetam had been missing since Thursday night. He had reportedly gone with two friends—identified as Chandra Pal and Rai Singh (alias Dholu)—to Dholu’s fields in Ali Mohammad village, where they spent the night in a room built on the farm. On Friday morning, Preetam’s health deteriorated rapidly. His friends rushed him to a private hospital in Sirsa, but doctors declared him dead on arrival.
Villagers revealed that the victim had been battling drug addiction for the past year and a half. His family, belonging to the Dhanak community, had made repeated attempts to counsel him and help him overcome the habit, but to no avail. Preetam’s father works as a daily wage labourer.
Upon receiving information, the Nathusari Chopta police arrived at the hospital and took custody of the body. Investigating Officer ASI Mahendra Singh stated that the body was sent to the Civil Hospital for a post-mortem examination to confirm the exact cause of death. “We have recorded the statements of the family members and initiated inquest proceedings under Section 194 of the BNSS. Further action will be taken based on the autopsy report,” the officer said. The police are also investigating the source of the drugs and the role of the individuals who were with the victim.
