ASI Sandeep Cremated with State Honours; Family Demands Fair Probe into Death

Hundreds of mourners, including senior government officials and opposition leaders, gathered in Julana town Thursday to pay final respects to Assistant Sub-Inspector Sandeep Lathar, who died Tuesday in Rohtak district. The cremation with state honours reflected widespread recognition of his service, though his family's calls for a thorough investigation cast a shadow over the proceedings.

Questions Surrounding the Death

Lathar's death came just a week after senior IPS officer Y Puran Kumar's death in Chandigarh on October 7. Sources indicate Chandigarh Police had been questioning multiple personnel, including Lathar, as part of their investigation into Kumar's death. The timing and circumstances have sparked concerns within police circles and the community.

The 42-year-old officer left behind his wife Santosh Devi and three children — Pratibha, Rupak, and Vihaan — now facing life without their primary earner and father figure.

Community Response and Tributes

The narrow lanes of Julana filled with villagers wanting to pay respects as Lathar's flower-decorated ambulance passed through Ward No. 4. Locals remembered him as "doston ka dost" (a friend of friends) and a dedicated officer known for his integrity and commitment to service.

Residents' desire to honor his memory and service was evident in one local's description of the death as "sacrifice" rather than suicide.

Official Presence 

Krishan Lal Panwar, Mahipal Dhanda, Ranbir Gangwa, and Shruti Chaudhry were among the Haryana ministers who attended the cremation. Congress MLA Vinesh Phogat, BJP state president Mohan Lal Badoli, and Police Director General OP Singh also paid their respects, underscoring the incident's significance across political lines.

Family's Appeal for Justice

Lathar's daughter Priyanka made an emotional plea during the proceedings: "My father was under immense pressure. We want a fair investigation to ensure justice." His family emphasized that circumstances surrounding his death require transparent examination.

According to Arjun Pandit, a close friend, Lathar appeared distressed during their most recent Sunday encounter. Pandit recalled, "He told me the situation wouldn't be resolved easily," implying that Lathar was upset about what had happened after the IPS officer's passing.

As family members and relatives sobbed, the cremation came to an end with chants of "Sandeep Amar Rahe," ending a traumatic chapter for the Lathar community and the Haryana police force.