The police arrest four in Thar hit-and-run case has shaken Faridabad and raised questions about reckless driving. On Tuesday, police took four people into custody, including the son of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Rajesh Lohan. This action followed the death of Manoj Kumar, who was struck by a Mahindra Thar SUV on Monday morning. Officials confirmed that the vehicle belongs to ACP Lohan. Faridabad Central Deputy Commissioner of Police Usha Devi shared this during a press briefing. However, police did not reveal the identities of those detained, and they have not yet made formal arrests. She also clarified that the SUV driver is not a minor.
The incident happened when Manoj Kumar rode his bike back to Faridabad from Vrindavan. Near Sector 12, he met his friends Aman and Navdeep, who got into an argument with people inside the Thar. The fight reportedly began when Aman and Navdeep tried to enter a roadside dhaba, which blocked the SUV’s path. Witnesses saw the SUV speeding toward them, making sharp turns. Someone inside even rolled down the window and shouted insults.
Tensions quickly escalated. According to Manoj’s younger brother, Vickky Kumar, one of the passengers told the driver to “hit them directly.” The driver then performed stunts with the Thar and targeted the group. Aman and Navdeep managed to escape, but the SUV rammed into Manoj with full force. The crash left him with fatal injuries, and the driver fled the scene.
Police first registered an FIR for culpable homicide not amounting to murder at the Faridabad Central station. Later, DCP Usha Devi announced that investigators had also added the charge of murder. This development shows the seriousness of the case.
This is not an isolated event. Faridabad, part of the National Capital Region (NCR), has seen a rise in accidents due to heavy traffic. In 2021 alone, Punjab recorded over 3,200 road crashes and more than 1,600 deaths. These numbers highlight the urgent need for stronger traffic enforcement.
Chandigarh ranks higher in road safety and planning, but Faridabad struggles with poor infrastructure and reckless driving. Large SUVs create even greater danger when drivers act irresponsibly. Authorities must strengthen speed monitoring, run frequent road checks, and improve road design. Public awareness campaigns can also encourage safer driving habits.
The death of Manoj Kumar has left his family and friends devastated. Residents of Faridabad are demanding justice and accountability. They believe this case should push authorities to enforce stricter laws and create safer streets for everyone.
As investigations move forward, the focus remains on both justice for Manoj and road safety for all. The police arrest four in Thar hit-and-run case reminds the community that stronger rules, better planning, and responsible driving are necessary to prevent future tragedies.
