Ashes mix-up at Solan crematorium found to be human error, no crime involved
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Shimla, Dec 29,
Concern among a Solan family over the disappearance of the ashes of their deceased mother has been put to rest, after police determined that the ashes were mistakenly taken by another family at the Chambaghat crematorium — an act ruled as accidental and not criminal in nature.
Superintendent of Police Gaurav Singh said police launched an immediate inquiry after a complaint was lodged regarding missing ashes stored inside lockers at the crematorium. Officials cross-checked the cremation register and scrutinized CCTV camera recordings from the premises. Family members of the complainant, including Rajiv Pal, were present during the probe, while statements from the other family involved — represented by Pranav Ghosh, son of P.K. Ghosh — were also recorded.
Investigations revealed that on the morning of December 19, Pranav Ghosh had collected ashes believing them to be those of his uncle, late Vijay Ghosh, who had also been cremated at the same facility. With identical lockers, similar key designs and low morning visibility, he mistakenly retrieved the ashes belonging to the complainant’s mother. These were later immersed as part of the last rituals. Meanwhile, the ashes of Vijay Ghosh were found safely stored in another locker.
Also read:When even death isn’t safe: Ashes theft spark shock and anger in Solan/
Police confirmed that both families recognized the mix-up as unintentional. The Ghosh family apologised and the complainant accepted it, expressing that they do not wish to pursue any legal proceedings. On the basis of CCTV verification, documentary checks, and statements from both sides, police closed the matter, categorizing it as a case of human error with no cognizable offence.
The clarification ends speculation of any wrongdoing at the crematorium, and the authorities assured that such accidental exchanges, though rare, will be handled with sensitivity.
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