A 26-year-old bodybuilder from Rohtak lost his life after allegedly being attacked by a group of men he had confronted for misbehaving with women during a wedding ceremony in Bhiwani. The victim, Rohit Dhankhar, a resident of Humayunpur village, had travelled to the event on Friday with his friend Jatin to offer shagun at a family function.
Confrontation Over Harassment Turns Deadly
According to the family, trouble began late at night when a baraat from Tigadana village arrived at the venue. Several members of the group allegedly started harassing women present at the ceremony. Rohit intervened and warned them, leading to a brief dispute. The men left soon after, and the ceremony continued without further disturbance.
After the event, Rohit and Jatin began their journey back home. When they stopped at a railway crossing, they were allegedly ambushed. The family claims nearly 20 armed men, carrying sticks and other weapons, surrounded the car and launched a brutal attack.
Assault and Tragic End
Both men attempted to run for safety. Jatin managed to flee, but Rohit was caught, dragged aside, and beaten mercilessly. Family members said there was “no part of his body without injury marks.”
Jatin later returned with help and rushed Rohit to a nearby hospital. He was referred to PGIMS Rohtak in critical condition. Despite continuous efforts by doctors through the night, Rohit succumbed to his injuries on Saturday.
Police from Bhiwani reached PGIMS upon receiving information and conducted a post-mortem based on the family’s complaint. An investigation into the attack is ongoing.
A Decorated Athlete and Trainer
Rohit was not only a professional bodybuilder but also an international-level medal winner. In 2018, he secured two gold medals, earning recognition and being felicitated by then Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar during the Independence Day celebrations. He trained several fitness enthusiasts at the Gymkhana Club in Rohtak.
Family Demands Strictest Punishment
Rohit’s brother-in-law, Ravi Khassa, and uncle, Satish Dhanakhar, have called the attack a planned murder, demanding stern action against all involved.
“He stood up to protect women’s dignity and paid for it with his life,” the family said.