Haryana is shaken by the brutal murder of 19-year-old playschool teacher Manisha from Singhani village in Bhiwani district. Her throat was slit, and her body was found in a field on August 13, days after she went missing. The family and locals have protested vehemently, accusing police of negligence and delayed action, and refusing to cremate her until the culprits are caught.
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has transferred the Bhiwani Superintendent of Police and suspended five police personnel in connection with the case. Political leaders and the National Human Rights Commission have also demanded swift justice amid concerns over women’s safety and law enforcement in the state.
Protests and Calls for Justice in Singhani Village
Manisha’s death has ignited widespread outrage and grief in Singhani and neighbouring areas. Villagers and family members staged protests, blocked roads, and held a mahapanchayat demanding the immediate arrest of the killers.
Markets were shut in solidarity, accompanied by public demonstrations in Bhiwani, Hisar, Jind, and Fatehabad. Manisha’s family alleges that the police initially dismissed her disappearance, refusing to register a missing person complaint promptly and delaying investigative action.
The refusal to release CCTV footage from a nursing college near where she was last seen further deepened suspicions of police inaction and possible interference. The victim’s father, Sanjay Singh, has vowed not to allow her last rites until arrests are made, expressing deep anguish and anger over the perceived failures of the authorities.
Background and Official Response
Manisha had left her school on August 11 to inquire about a B.Sc nursing course at a nearby college but never returned. Her body was discovered two days later with her throat slit and signs of possible acid burns or animal attacks. The Loharu police unit initially expressed the belief that she may have run away but registered a missing complaint following family pressure.
In reaction to mounting public anger and political criticism, Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini transferred the Bhiwani SP Manbir Singh and suspended five police officers, including the SHO and assistants. CM Saini assured the public of his personal monitoring of the investigation and pledged strict action upon the conclusion of the inquiry. Opposition leaders have called the situation a collapse of law and order, criticising the government for failing to protect women under its watch.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian stands firmly with Manisha’s family and the outraged community demanding justice, recognising this tragedy as a stark symbol of broader systemic failures that jeopardise the safety of women in Haryana and beyond. This case underscores the urgent need for accountable, efficient policing combined with strengthened community awareness and support systems for women at risk.
Beyond punitive measures, fostering empathetic societal attitudes and empowering women to live free from fear are paramount. We call on authorities, civil society, and citizens alike to collaborate in creating safe, respectful environments for women.
