Anti-narcotics activist's postmortem to be conducted at PGI Chandigarh

The postmortem examination of Parvinder Singh Jhota, a prominent anti-narcotics activist from Mansa in Punjab, will be conducted at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI) in Chandigarh, bringing an end to a protracted standoff with his family.

The resolution comes after 22 days of demonstrations by Jhota's relatives, who had been demanding a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. The Punjab government announced a compensation package of Rs 2 crore to the family and pledged government employment for Jhota's wife, addressing key demands raised during the protest.

Jhota had been actively engaged in raising awareness against drug abuse in Punjab, a state grappling with significant narcotic-related challenges. His death had triggered concerns among civil society members and anti-drug campaigners across the region.

The government's decision to conduct the postmortem at PGI, one of India's premier medical research institutions, is expected to ensure a credible and transparent examination process. The findings from the postmortem are anticipated to provide clarity on the circumstances of Jhota's death.

The announcement of compensation and employment assurance represents a significant concession from the state government, underscoring the family's persistence in seeking accountability and recognition for Jhota's anti-drug advocacy work.