Harsh! Pakistani Hindu couple dies of dehydration in desert while trying to pursue a life in India

Dehydration is believed to be the cause of death for Ravi Kumar (17) and Shanti Bai (15) from Pakistan, whose bodies were found in the deserts of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, on Saturday.

Confirming the cause of death, Jaisalmer police said the couple likely died after failing to find water while crossing the international border near Jaisalmer. According to news reports, the couple had been married in Mirpur Mathelo, part of the Ghotki district in Pakistan’s Sindh province, and had long desired to settle permanently in India. They had also applied for visas.

 

However, their application was rejected following the Pahalgam terrorist attack and the diplomatic tensions that ensued. Undeterred, the couple reportedly decided to cross the border illegally in hopes of starting a new life in India.

 

Their families had strongly opposed the plan and warned them of the repercussions of such a foolhardy attempt. Nonetheless, around a week ago, Ravi Kumar and Shanti Bai are said to have set out on the arduous journey through the desert to fulfill their dream.

 

They did manage to reach the Indian side but are believed to have run out of water during the journey, according to a report by The Times of India. An empty jerry can, presumed to be their water container, was found on Ravi Kumar’s body.

 

The couple’s postmortem was completed on Sunday.

 

According to The Times of India, the families have expressed willingness to accept the mortal remains if arrangements for transportation can be made. Otherwise, they have requested that the cremation be carried out according to Hindu rituals.

India