Punjab: Phagwara resident dies during Amarnath Yatra, family blames health complications for tragic loss

A man from Phagwara in Punjab died during the ongoing Amarnath Yatra after suffering serious health complications, with his family stating that he passed away while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Srinagar.

The deceased, identified as Manoj Batra, had travelled to Jammu and Kashmir for the Yatra. According to his family, he informed them over the phone that his health had deteriorated and that he had been shifted to a hospital for medical care.

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Manoj’s nephew Ashish Arora said that the family received information about his condition and immediately travelled to Srinagar. He said they reached the hospital on July 6 morning and spoke to Manoj, who appeared stable at the time and had tea and bread.

“My uncle called us on July 5 and informed us that his health was not good and that someone should come to take him back home. Later, we received a call asking family members to reach Srinagar hospital immediately,” Ashish said.

He added that after consuming tea and bread, Manoj’s condition worsened again. Doctors informed the family that fluid had accumulated in his lungs, and despite treatment, his health continued to decline.

Ashish said Manoj suffered repeated cardiac arrests and his oxygen levels could not reach the brain, which ultimately led to his death. He added that medical teams provided oxygen support and made efforts to save him.

“The doctors tried their best, but due to repeated cardiac arrests, oxygen could not reach his brain. He passed away during treatment,” Ashish said.

The family alleged that the group accompanying Manoj during the pilgrimage had moved ahead with the yatra after he fell ill. Ashish said the family obtained necessary permission from Jammu and Kashmir authorities to bring the mortal remains back home.

He further said that since Manoj died during the pilgrimage, the family should be provided the applicable compensation and support under the relevant provisions.

The incident has left the family in deep shock, with relatives mourning the sudden loss of Manoj Batra.