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December 18, 2025 – India –
Independent journalist Pankaj Mishra (50) died in Dehradun following a violent attack at his home, prompting police to arrest two suspects and launch a detailed investigation into the incident. The assault occurred late on December 15, 2025, when a group of men forcibly entered Mishra’s residence in the Doon Vihar area of Jakhan and allegedly subjected him to a severe beating. The attack resulted in critical injuries that led to his death in a hospital in the early hours of December 16, 2025.
According to the complaint lodged by Mishra’s brother, Arvind Mishra, the accused — identified as Amit Sehgal (51) and Parthoshil Seal (45) — assaulted the journalist by kicking and punching him on the chest and abdomen, allegedly with the intent to cause fatal harm. The complaint noted that Mishra began bleeding from the mouth during the attack. His mobile phone and that of his wife were reportedly taken by the assailants when his wife attempted to contact the police. Mishra later reached authorities via a passerby’s phone, but no immediate action was taken on the night of the incident. He later collapsed and was pronounced dead at Doon Hospital. An FIR was registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including allegations of murder, house trespass, and assault.
Law enforcement officials confirmed the arrests of Sehgal and Parthoshil on December 18, 2025, following examination of CCTV footage, forensic evidence, and witness statements. Senior Superintendent of Police Ajai Singh stated that both suspects would be presented in court as the investigation continues. Additional police units, including the cyber cell and forensic teams, have been deployed to ensure a comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the attack. Authorities are working to determine the motive behind the assault.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of media workers in the region. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed condolences to Mishra’s family and assured that the investigation would proceed without negligence, pledging government support throughout the judicial process.
Family members have requested a second post-mortem examination after expressing dissatisfaction with initial findings, as authorities await detailed results from the medical panel. The case continues to be closely monitored by law enforcement and civil society, given its implications for journalist safety and public order.
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