2 sadhus murdered, buried in forest near Haridwar temple; probe underway: Cop
Source Entity
Latest News: Today's Latest News Headlines from India & World | Hindustan Times | Hindustan Times

Two sadhus, Sewa Giri and Uttam Giri, were found murdered and buried in a forest near the Pathreshwar Mahadev temple in Haridwar. Local police have launched an investigation following their disappearance, which was reported by temple staff.
Tragic Discovery in Haridwar: Investigation into the Deaths of Two Sadhus
The Incident
In a deeply concerning turn of events, two sadhus, identified as Sewa Giri and Uttam Giri, were found murdered and buried in a pit within a forest near the Pathreshwar Mahadev temple in the Pathri area of Haridwar. The discovery followed a frantic search operation initiated by local law enforcement after temple staff reported the two monks missing since Monday. The brutal nature of the crime, involving the concealment of bodies in a forest, has sent shockwaves through the local religious community.
Police Response and Investigation
Upon receiving reports of the disappearance, a search operation was swiftly launched under the leadership of Pathri police station in-charge, Rabindra Singh. The efforts of the police teams were focused on the vicinity of the temple, leading to the identification of disturbed soil in the nearby forest. Superintendent of Rural Police, Shekhar Chandra Suyal, confirmed that the bodies were recovered from the pit, marking the official commencement of a murder investigation. The authorities are currently focused on forensic evidence to ascertain the timeline of the attack.
Context of the Region
Haridwar, a city of immense spiritual significance, is home to numerous temples and ashrams that house sadhus and ascetics from across the country. The Pathreshwar Mahadev temple serves as a residence for many such individuals. The safety of religious figures within these spaces is a matter of public concern, and such an incident highlights the vulnerability of secluded religious hermitages located near forest tracts in the Haridwar district.
Broader Implications
This incident raises significant questions regarding the security protocols for religious sites in rural or semi-forested areas. The murder of two monks, who are generally seen as non-confrontational figures, suggests a targeted act of violence. The local administration and police are under pressure to ensure that the investigation is conducted with transparency to maintain communal harmony and trust within the region, as the news of the discovery has caused considerable distress among devotees.
Future Trends and Security
As the investigation proceeds, the primary goal for law enforcement will be to identify the perpetrators and establish a motive. Following this incident, it is highly probable that local authorities will review security measures around rural temples and forest-adjacent religious properties. Ensuring the safety of residents in these secluded areas will likely become a priority for the Haridwar police in the coming weeks to prevent further tragedies of this nature.
Conclusion
The murder of Sewa Giri and Uttam Giri is a tragic event that demands a thorough and swift judicial process. As the police continue their probe into the circumstances surrounding their disappearance and subsequent death, the community awaits answers regarding the perpetrators. The focus remains on justice for the victims and the restoration of safety in the temple precincts of the Pathri area.
Verification Required?