A monk from a Swaminarayan temple in Surat, who was undergoing treatment since April 26, passed away on Friday. The deceased, identified as Priyadarshan Swami (48), was under the jurisdiction of the Laskana police station.
Incident Details
Priyadarshan Swami was found unconscious on a school campus in the Valak Patiya area, where he was residing. He was immediately rushed to a private hospital, where he remained in critical condition before succumbing to his condition.
Police Investigation
The police have registered a case of accidental death and launched an investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that the saint consumed an excessive quantity of sleeping pills, leading to his unconscious state. Investigators revealed that Priyadarshan Swami had been suffering from severe migraine for the past five years and was undergoing treatment for the same. During his hospitalization, medical tests also indicated that he had developed pneumonia, which severely affected his lungs.
Unanswered Questions
Police officials stated that it is yet to be determined whether the pneumonia developed before or after the alleged consumption of sleeping pills. A police officer from Laskana police station said, "Prima facie, we have found that he consumed excessive sleeping pills. Further investigation will proceed after we receive the viscera and final postmortem reports."
Further Steps
Authorities are expected to record statements from the deceased's family members, followers, and fellow saints as part of the ongoing investigation. The police are awaiting forensic reports to ascertain the exact cause of death.
