Chandigarh Reels as Law Student Faces Culpable Homicide Charges in Fatal Thar Accident

A pall of grief and outrage has descended upon Chandigarh following a horrific road accident on the Zirakpur-Patiala highway that claimed the life of a young woman and critically injured her sister. The perpetrator, a 23-year-old law student identified as Samrat Singh, was swiftly arrested after his speeding Mahindra Thar SUV violently struck the two siblings as they crossed the road.

The tragic incident unfolded on Sunday night when 20-year-old Harpreet Kaur and her 17-year-old sister, Sukhpreet Kaur, were making their way across the busy highway after enjoying a dinner out.

Eyewitnesses recounted a scene of terror as the Thar, allegedly driven at an excessive speed, ploughed into the unsuspecting sisters. Harpreet sustained grievous injuries and was tragically declared dead upon arrival at the hospital, while Sukhpreet remains in critical condition, battling for her life.

Initial reports suggest that Samrat Singh, son of a police officer, attempted to flee the scene after the collision, a desperate act foiled by alert passersby who managed to apprehend him.

The vehicle, a black Thar SUV, was seized by authorities, becoming a stark testament to the devastating impact of unchecked speed and recklessness.

Police in Zirakpur registered a case against Samrat Singh under Indian Penal Code sections 279 (rash driving), 304A (causing death by negligence), and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others).

However, given the severity of the incident and the alleged attempt to abscond, investigators later added the more stringent charge of Section 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder). This escalation in charges underscores the gravity with which the authorities are approaching the case, especially in light of the accused's alleged history of reckless driving, including a previous challan against the same vehicle.

The incident has ignited widespread discussions about road safety and the accountability of drivers, particularly among the youth.

Family members of the victims, heartbroken and demanding justice, have urged for a thorough investigation and stringent punishment. As Sukhpreet fights for recovery, the community mourns Harpreet’s untimely demise, hoping that justice will be served and such preventable tragedies can be averted in the future.