Wow. Came here hoping for an answer to the same doubt, ended up reading a silly back and forth.
I fly an ALH (Dhruv) as well. The torque rise phenomena is absolutely confounding because common sense tells me translational lift should reduce torque requirement. But torque of both engines rises significantly on its own while crossing transition and a small bit later around 50-60 kts. I've heard a similar (attempted) explanation about control rod movement but it doesn't sound remotely convincing. I have a strong feeling its an aerodynamic phenomena, but I'm at a loss for ideas.
PS:- it really isn't as bad an aircraft as it's made out to be.