Why hasn't the body of medical student Ajit Singh Chaudhary returned from Russia?
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Jaipur, Nov 12 (NationPress) The Laxmangarh region in Rajasthan's Alwar is currently overwhelmed with grief and anger as the remains of Ajit Singh Chaudhary, a medical student who tragically died in Russia, have yet to be returned to India. An indefinite sit-in protest commenced at Bhagat Singh Circle on Wednesday, where hundreds of community members are demanding the immediate repatriation of Chaudhary's body.
In a show of solidarity with the bereaved family, local traders and associations have declared that all markets and private educational institutions will be closed on Thursday.
Chaudhary, who hailed from Kafanwada, traveled to Ufa, Russia, in October 2023 to pursue an MBBS degree. He had been missing since October 19, with Ufa Police reportedly discovering his mobile phone, shoes, and clothing along the banks of the Ufa River the following day.
The family filed a complaint with both Ufa police and the Indian Embassy, urging a comprehensive search operation. After several days, his body was located on November 6 in the White River Dam in Ufa. The university authorities in Russia have classified his death as a suicide, suggesting the family collect the body.
However, Chaudhary's relatives dispute this assertion, suspecting foul play and demanding a videographed autopsy conducted under the supervision of the Rajasthan Medical Board upon the body's return to India.
Despite repeated reassurances, the body has not arrived in India even a week after its recovery. Frustrated by the ongoing delay and lack of communication from authorities, the grieving family, along with hundreds of locals, initiated an indefinite dharna at Bhagat Singh Circle.
The protesters are insisting that the administration hasten the repatriation process and are requesting that the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) visit the protest site to receive their memorandum.
A delegation later met with the SDO and submitted their memorandum, emphasizing their demands. The family has warned that should the delays result in additional distress or any unfortunate incidents, the administration will be held accountable.