Amid Protests, Bhiwani Teacher’s Case Goes to CBI

Amid widespread protests, the Haryana government has decided to transfer the investigation into the death of 19-year-old teacher Manisha in Bhiwani to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced Wednesday. “The state government is committed to ensuring justice for Manisha and her family with full transparency,” Saini posted on X, emphasizing his ongoing oversight of the case.

Manisha’s body was discovered in a field in Singhani village, Bhiwani, on August 13, two days after she went missing following a visit to inquire about a nursing college admission. The police initially registered a murder case, but on Monday, Bhiwani Superintendent of Police Sumit Kumar claimed evidence pointed to suicide, citing a suicide note found in her bag, proof of her purchasing insecticide, and forensic confirmation of poison in her body. Two autopsies, including one at PGIMS Rohtak, ruled out sexual assault and attributed facial injuries to animal scavenging.

Manisha’s father, Sanjay, rejected the suicide theory, insisting, “My daughter could never take her own life. I want justice.” Villagers, echoing his demand, blocked key roads in Bhiwani and refused to cremate her body until the culprits are arrested. The protests prompted the government to suspend mobile internet, bulk SMS, and dongle services in Bhiwani and Charkhi Dadri for 48 hours from Tuesday to curb misinformation and maintain order.

Also Read: Fugitive Murderer Caught After 26 Years on Run

Opposition parties, including Congress, slammed the BJP-led government, alleging a collapse of law and order. Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda criticized the police’s handling as “negligent and irresponsible,” accusing them of hastily labeling the case a suicide. The outrage led to the transfer of the former Bhiwani SP and suspension of five police officers for alleged lapses.

The CBI probe, announced in response to the family’s demands, aims to deliver an impartial investigation into Manisha’s mysterious death, which has fueled public anger and political debate across Haryana.

Also Read: Supreme Court Axes Dheeraj Wadhawan’s Bail in Massive DHFL Loan Fraud