'Attempted to burn alive': Crucial breakthrough in influencer's death, video dispels rumours

CHANDIGARH: A crucial breakthrough emerged in the case concerning the death of Punjabi social media influencer Manjeet Kaur. A video Manjeet reportedly recorded while undergoing treatment for severe burns surfaced, and in it she identifies the individuals who attempted to burn her alive.

The incident in question took place on July 4. Manjeet, who sustained severe burns, had sought treatment at various hospitals. After battling for her life for nearly three months, she passed away on August 26. "Surjit, Shubhi, Neha, and the two men accompanying Shubhi are responsible for the condition I am in now. They are the ones who set me on fire. I urge the authorities to punish those who did this to me as soon as possible," Manjeet says in the video.

Police stated that Manjeet was lured to Sector 34 by someone. It is alleged that four individuals subsequently abducted and sexually assaulted the young woman. The investigation further revealed that she was taken to a secluded area, tied to a tree, and set on fire while still alive. Police also report that after the group left the scene, one of them returned, extinguished the flames by covering Manjeet with a woollen blanket, and rushed her to the hospital.

Manjeet, who had sustained severe burns, was initially admitted to a hospital but did not recover; she was subsequently shifted to various other hospitals for specialised treatment. Reports indicate that the video, which could prove crucial to the case, was recorded while she was undergoing treatment. Following Manjeet's death, the Chandigarh Police had intensified their investigation.

The police are verifying the authenticity of the released video and the location where it was filmed. The investigation team will also examine the veracity of the allegations made by Manjeet in the video. Investigations are ongoing to identify those involved in the incident and to clarify the circumstances surrounding the crime.