Rehab inmate dies after assault, three staffers held

Tribune News Service

Sangrur, May 2

An addict undergoing treatment at Navchetna Foundation De-Addiction Centre, Sular Gharat, died after he was allegedly beaten up by centre managers on Wednesday.

Even as the owner has denied the charge, the police have registered a case against five persons. Gurlal Singh, son of deceased Kewal Singh (48) said, “Some inmates of the centre told us that my father was beaten up following which he died. Since the owner is close to some Congress leaders, we are getting calls from leaders for a compromise.”

DSP William Jeji said, “We have registered a case against five persons. While Mohit Kumar, Gurminder Singh and Gurwinder Singh have been arrested, raids are on to nab Jugraj Singh and Pankaj Verma.”

Kewal was admitted to the centre around six days ago due to his addiction for liquor.

Gursev Singh, centre owner claimed, “After he complained of health problems, our staff took him to government hospital on Wednesday, but he died on the way. We provided him the best treatment and all allegations are baseless. I have not asked any Congress leader for support.”