RAIPUR: A Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) personnel reportedly shot himself to death with his service rifle during the anti-Maoist operation in the strife-torn Sukma district, about 480 km south of Raipur.
“The jawan Harjeet Singh, who was resident of Punjab state, while he was engaged in an operation along with the troopers of 206 CoBRA battalion reportedly shot himself with his service weapon AK-47. He died on the spot. The immediate reason behind taking the extreme step couldn't be known”, said K L Dhruw, Sukma district superintendent of police.
The incident occurred in the forested terrain near Minpa were the forces were carrying out the search operation.
“Whether it was a suicide or some other reason behind the death of CoBRA jawan, we are investigating”, the CRPF spokesperson H K Sahu told the New Indian Express.
There are incidences of self-harm among security personnel reported in the Left Wing Extremism (LWE)-affected conflict zone of Bastar. Many times the reasons behind suicides were also attributed to domestic or family issues besides the work pressure.
“The CRPF remains concerned over the mental health and well-being of the personnel deployed in the region. On Friday, we had a seminar to address the suicide prevention activities to ensure such incidents do not become a fallout of mental stress in the Bastar zone”, Sahu added.
(If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call AASRA's 24x7 Helpline: +91-9820466726 for assistance.)