Man dies by suicide in Chhattisgarh police station, locals destroy property

A man allegedly committed suicide inside a police station in Chhattisgarh’s Balrampur district. The death of Guru Charan Mandal, whose wife went missing on September 29, has led to allegations of police brutality.

Guru Charan Mandal was called to the police station along with his father for questioning about his wife’s disappearance. According to a police official, Mandal went to the washroom with a gamcha (a traditional cloth) around his neck but did not return. He was later found dead in the bathroom under unclear circumstances.

Following the discovery, Mandal’s family accused police of physical abuse, claiming it pushed him to take his own life. His father, Shiv Charan Mondal, told the media: “For the past 20 days, my daughter-in-law has been missing and I have been in custody along with my son for three days. The police beat us mercilessly. When my son was threatened further, he could no longer bear it. I lost my son because of Balrampur police.”

News of Mandal’s death has sparked outrage among local residents. A crowd gathered outside the police station and vented their anger through violent protests. They damaged the police station and vehicles. The situation quickly escalated, with protesters smashing windows and doors, prompting police to respond with tear gas and batons to restore order.

Congress leaders have criticized the ruling BJP government for its alleged inability to maintain law and order. Opposition members have demanded the resignation of the state’s interior minister and an immediate, thorough investigation to ensure accountability.

Addressing the incident, Balrampur Additional Superintendent of Police (SP) Shailesh Pandey said, “A woman went missing on September 29, 2024, and her husband (the victim) and father-in-law had come to the station to file a complaint. . He went to the washroom with a gamcha around his neck and didn’t come back. We have informed the SP and IG about the incident. Whoever is responsible will be brought to justice.”

The police official called on the public to maintain law and order.