Jalandhar, Punjab: A hit-and-run case reported from the Leather Complex area near Maksoodan in Jalandhar has taken a new turn, with allegations emerging that a gas agency vehicle driver first took the injured victim away but failed to take him to a hospital.

Victim Allegedly Left to Die, Body Dumped in Bushes

According to reports, after the accident, the driver allegedly kept the injured man in the vehicle for nearly an hour instead of rushing him to medical care. The victim reportedly died during this time, after which the accused is said to have dumped the body in thorny bushes and fled from the scene. The driver is now absconding, and his house has been found locked.

The victim’s family claims that the police have not taken effective action even after five days.

Family Alleges Pressure to Reach Settlement

The family has not yet conducted the post-mortem or allowed last rites, demanding justice instead. They have alleged that the gas agency owner is pressuring them to settle the case for Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh.

The victim’s son said the agency owner threatened them, claiming he would “get his employee released by paying money” and that no action would be taken against him.

Accused Allegedly Looted Victim During Incident

The deceased, identified as Sohan Lal from Bihar, worked at JK Casting and was on his way to duty when the accident occurred near the Canara Bank area at Leather Complex on June 2.

The family alleges that after the collision, the driver not only failed to take the victim to hospital but also allegedly stole Rs 5,000 from his wallet and removed his gold locket before abandoning the injured man in bushes.

Local Residents Call It a Murder, Not Accident

Residents participating in the protest outside Maksoodan police station said the incident appears to be a deliberate act rather than an accident. They alleged that instead of helping the injured, the accused left him to suffer.

Protesters also alleged that the gas agency owner is sheltering the accused driver and attempting to pressure the victim’s family into a settlement.

They warned of wider protests if strict action is not taken.

Police Say Driver Absconding, Raids Underway

Maksoodan police station SHO Gurpreet Singh said the accident occurred on June 2 and CCTV footage has helped identify the vehicle involved.

He confirmed that the driver has absconded along with his family and multiple police teams are conducting raids in areas including Moga and Kapurthala.

The gas agency owner has also been questioned, and police stated that no settlement is being facilitated.

Authorities said efforts are underway to arrest the accused soon and have urged the family to allow post-mortem and cremation procedures.