An Indian Assam Rifles rifleman was found dead after hanging himself in Kakching district of violence-hit BJP-ruled Manipur state. The deceased was identified as Chanam Nimanda Singh, 27. He was found hanging inside the premises of 28 Sector Assam Rifles at Kakching Lamkhai, within the jurisdiction of Kakching Police Station in Kakching district. Police said the body was recovered from the Assam Rifles facility.

A case has been registered and further investigation is underway to ascertain the circumstances surrounding his death. The incident has once again drawn attention to deaths by suicide among personnel of Indian armed and paramilitary forces deployed in conflict zones. Such incidents are often linked to a range of factors, including execution of violent orders, prolonged separation from families, work-related stress, difficult service conditions, personal and family problems, financial difficulties, and concerns over leave and working hours.

 Incidents of harassment, pressure from senior officers and lack of adequate psychological and diagnostic support further aggravate the mental health problems of personnel.  Observers say continued deployment in restive regions like Manipur and IIOJK without adequate welfare measures has led to rising frustration and suicides within Indian forces.  

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)