Ujjain: Body of Gurkeerat Manocha, a student from Ujjain who was murdered in Canada on March 14, was brought to his hometown on Friday morning.
His body was flown to Ahmedabad on Thursday night, where it underwent customs clearance and documentation formalities before being handed over to the family.
An ambulance arranged by an Ahmedabad-based organisation then transported the body to the family's rented home in Parshvanath Colony, Dewas Road, Ujjain.
As the ambulance arrived, Gurkeerat's mother, Reetu Kaur Manocha, rushed down from first floor of the building and approached the driver with folded hands and a choked voice, thanking him for bringing her son home for a final farewell. The Gujarat-based driver also could not hold back his tears. Neither could the men and women gathered there.
Gurkeerat had gone to Fort St. John, British Columbia, about a year and a quarter ago to pursue a post-degree diploma in business management at Northern Lights College. He was attacked by a group of 10 to 12 youths about three weeks back leading to his death.
Before the funeral procession began, chief minister Mohan Yadav visited the family home, paid floral tributes to the deceased and offered condolences to his parents.
The funeral procession left from the family's home on Dewas Road and made its way to Shri Sukhsagar Sahab Gurudwara in Freeganj, where prayers were held. From there, the procession passed through Ghantaghar before reaching Chakrateerth crematorium, where the last rites were performed.
A condolence meeting was later held at Chakrateerth, attended by members of Sikh community, city residents, politicians and social workers.