Body of missing Tripura blogger Pranab Das recovered from Dzükou Valley after month-long search. Family seeks thorough investigation as police continue probe into mysterious death in Nagaland, sparking public concern and demands for transparency.
The mortal remains of Pranab Das, a 22-year-old blogger from Tripura who went missing in Nagaland nearly a month ago, were brought back to his residence in Malaynagar Nepali Para under Srinagar subdivision on Monday, ending weeks of uncertainty and anguish for his family.
Pranab Das had gone missing on January 4 during a visit to Dzükou Valley, a popular trekking destination near Kohima in Nagaland. He was last seen at the Dzükou Valley ticket counter in Viswema village, Kohima district. After losing contact with him on the same day, his family initially tried to trace him on their own before officially lodging a missing person report on January 13.
Following the complaint, Kohima Police launched an extensive search operation involving multiple agencies. The search effort included the Southern Angami Youth Organization (SAYO), the Southern Dzükou Guide Council, local volunteers, and rescue teams equipped with drones. Despite difficult terrain and harsh winter conditions, teams continued combing the valley and surrounding areas for several weeks.
On February 6, at around 4 pm, search teams recovered Pranab Das’s body near a river close to the Dzükou Valley helipad. Authorities said that extreme cold weather had slowed decomposition, which helped in identifying the body. His identity was confirmed through personal belongings found at the site, including a Dzükou Valley entry slip, two mobile phones, a wallet, and valid identification documents.
The body was transported to the Dzükou base camp on the same night and later handed over to police officials after completion of necessary legal procedures. Kohima Police stated that the recovery was part of an ongoing investigation registered under South Police Station case No. 0005/26 U/S 140(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Das had checked into a homestay in Lerie Colony, Kohima, on January 2. He reportedly left the homestay early on January 4 to visit Dzükou Valley. Police recorded statements from the homestay caretaker, a taxi driver, and family members. Technical analysis, including scrutiny of call detail records, bank transactions, and CCTV footage from nearby locations, was also carried out.
On Monday, the body was formally handed over to the family in Tripura. Scenes of grief unfolded as relatives, friends, and neighbors gathered to pay their last respects. Social media platforms were flooded with tributes and condolences, remembering Pranab Das as a young, passionate blogger with a promising future.
While police have indicated that preliminary findings do not suggest foul play, the exact cause of death has not yet been conclusively determined. Family members and local residents have demanded a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation to rule out all possibilities.
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Kohima Police acknowledged the crucial support extended by SAYO, district administration, local volunteers, and the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), stating that coordinated efforts were instrumental in locating the body.
The tragic death has cast a shadow of sorrow over Malaynagar, with the community mourning the loss of a young voice whose journey ended far too soon, even as questions surrounding his death remain unanswered.
