Morinda Gurdwara Sacrilege Accused Dies in Mansa Civil Hospital Following Breathing Problems

Jasvir Singh, the accused in the Morinda gurdwara sacrilege case, died at the Civil Hospital in Mansa. He complained of breathing problems while in prison and was taken to the hospital for treatment where he died. The reason behind his death is currently unknown.

On April 24, Jasvir Singh was arrested after a video of him went viral, showing him entering the sanctum sanctorum of Gurdwara Kotwali Sahib in Morinda and hitting the two granthis (priests) as well as desecrating the Guru Granth Sahib. He was taken to Rupnagar prison. He was presented in Rupnagar court on April 27 where a lawyer tried to unsuccessfully attack him there with a revolver. He was then moved to Masa prison.

Locals had been protesting outside the Morinda Police Station, demanding strict punishment for the accused. Markets were also shut down in protest against the incident.

On Monday evening at Mansa jail, Jasvir Singh complained of breathing problems after which he was taken to the Civil Hospital in Mansa. He collapsed at the hospital and was pronounced dead. Mansa SSP Dr. Nanak Singh confirmed Jasvir Singh’s death, but the reason behind his death remains unclear.

At this point, it is unknown if there is an investigation underway to find out what lead to his death.

Vineet Washington