Rajat Kumar, the young man who heroically saved Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant from a life-threatening car accident in 2022, is now battling for his life after attempting suicide. On February 9, Rajat and his 21-year-old girlfriend, Manu Kashyap, attempted suicide by ingesting poison in Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar district. While Rajat is currently hospitalised and fighting for survival, Manu passed away.

The couple’s decision was reportedly influenced by the opposition from their families regarding their relationship. Their families, citing caste differences, had fixed their marriages to others and disapproved of the union. According to reports, the intense family pressure led the young couple to take this drastic step.

Manu Kashyap’s mother has raised serious allegations, claiming that Rajat Kumar abducted her daughter and poisoned her. The family has filed a complaint at the Purkazi police station, accusing Rajat of being responsible for Manu’s death. 

Muzaffarnagar SP Satyanarayan Prajapat confirmed that a case has been registered, and authorities are investigating the matter.

Rajat Kumar, aged 25, became a hero in December 2022 after he, along with his neighbour Nishu Kumar, saved cricketer Rishabh Pant from a fatal accident. Pant's Mercedes had crashed into a divider near Roorkee, catching fire. Rajat and Nishu rushed to the scene, pulled Pant from the vehicle, and helped extinguish the flames before arranging for emergency medical assistance. Pant, recognising their bravery, later gifted the young men scooters as a token of gratitude.

(Attention: Suicide is not a solution to any problem. Those struggling with mental health issues should seek help from professionals. The 'Disha' helpline provides free counselling and support services. Dial toll-free helpline number: 1056 or 0471-2552056)