Mystery deepens over Kerala youth’s death in Kashmir forest

A 27-year-old man from Kerala, Muhammed Shanib, has been found dead in the forested region of Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir, with early indications suggesting he may have been killed by wild animals. Shanib, who hailed from Mannarkad in Palakkad district, had been missing for over three weeks.

As per police sources, Shanib had left home on April 13, telling his family he was heading to Bengaluru for a new job opportunity. He reportedly visited his sister in the city, but soon after, communication ceased. Family members stated they had been unable to reach him by phone, and grew increasingly worried as days passed. They also mentioned that Shanib had certain intellectual difficulties, making his disappearance even more distressing.

Local authorities in Gulmarg informed Kerala Police and the family after discovering a decomposed body in a forest area. While forensic confirmation is awaited, officials said the identification is nearly certain, and family members are travelling to Kashmir to complete the formalities.

Palakkad district police chief Ajit Kumar was quoted as saying that no suspicious activities or links had emerged so far in relation to the youth. He added that police were treating the case as a likely accidental death, though the final cause would be confirmed after further investigation.

Gulmarg police reportedly suspect that Shanib may have been attacked by wild animals, a possibility being considered based on the condition of the body and the terrain. Local MLA K Santhakumari, who has been in touch with officials in Kashmir, said police were still unclear on how Shanib ended up in such a remote location, especially given his mental condition.

There were unconfirmed reports suggesting Shanib may have worked briefly in Gulf countries in the past. His father, Abdul Samad, is known to have lived abroad, but police have not verified Shanib’s overseas employment history.

Back in Mannarkad, the incident has left residents stunned, with many expressing disbelief over the circumstances of Shanib’s death. As the family prepares to identify the body and bring him home, questions remain over how a young man from southern India found himself in the forests of Kashmir, far from the path he claimed to be taking.