Mandi Murder Case: A wave of shock and grief has swept through the Sarkaghat subdivision of Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district following the brutal murder of Siya Guleria, a second-year student at Gopalpur College. The victim, who was actively involved in student politics, was intercepted and killed while she was on her way to attend classes on Monday.
The incident occurred as Siya approached the local bus stop. According to eyewitness accounts and preliminary reports, a young man wearing a hood emerged from a wooded area near a secluded stretch of the road. Armed with a sharp-edged weapon, the assailant first struck Siya on the arm, causing her to collapse. He then delivered a fatal blow to her neck before fleeing the scene.
The location of the attack, characterized by dense trees and few nearby residences, remained deserted at the time of the crime. Although locals rushed to the spot after hearing the victim’s screams, Siya had already succumbed to her injuries. The brutality of the act sparked immediate tension throughout the Gopalpur region.
Following a three-hour manhunt, villagers spotted the suspect hiding in wheat fields near Nain village. An enraged mob surrounded the individual, identified as Rishu, and subjected him to a physical assault. By the time the police arrived, the suspect’s limbs were tied, and the crowd was reportedly demanding immediate capital punishment.
DSP Sanjeev Sood and SHO Rajneesh Thakur, leading a significant police contingent, managed to secure the suspect from the mob after a prolonged struggle. Police officials have confirmed that Rishu is a known drug addict. While the suspect is in custody, the specific motive behind the targeted killing remains under investigation.
Siya Guleria was a prominent figure at Gopalpur College, serving as the Unit Vice President of the Students’ Federation of India (SFI). A student of B.Voc, she was described by her teachers and peers as a dedicated student and a sociable leader who carried the aspirations of her family.
The victim belonged to a modest household; her father, Joginder Kumar, works as a truck driver in Baddi. The family relies on the efforts of their children, with Siya’s elder sister also working in Baddi, while her younger sister recently completed her Class 12 examinations. The police have registered a case and assured the public of a fast-tracked, impartial investigation.
