Rajgarh/Solan, February 4:
A tragic incident in Himachal Pradesh has raised serious questions about administrative work culture and alleged departmental pressure after a senior government officer reportedly died by suicide in Sirmaur district.
According to information, the deceased has been identified as Prem Prakash Bhagnal (40), a resident of Kodb Baghna village in the Habban area of Rajgarh subdivision. He was posted as District Statistical Officer in the District Statistics Office, Solan. On Monday, he allegedly hanged himself from a tree in a forest near his native village.
Police recovered a two-page suicide note from the spot. In the note, Bhagnal reportedly mentioned flaws in the administrative system, the working style of the department, lack of communication, and alleged mental harassment at the workplace. He stated that his extreme step was not due to any personal dispute but due to systemic shortcomings and sustained mental pressure.
The family of the deceased has demanded a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter. His father, Kedar Singh, said that Prem Prakash had been on leave for the past few days and appeared mentally distressed. He had reportedly shared with family members that senior officials and technical staff were allegedly pressuring him to carry out work in an improper manner, which was affecting his mental health.
Upon receiving information, Rajgarh police reached the spot and initiated proceedings. After conducting the post-mortem examination, the body was handed over to the family. ASP Yogesh Rolta confirmed that a case has been registered and that the suicide note, along with all other aspects, is being examined as part of the investigation.
The incident has sparked concern over workplace stress and administrative accountability within government departments.
