Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh | July 29, 2026: A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel was found dead inside the premises of the 80th Battalion in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, prompting a detailed investigation by the local police and CRPF authorities. Officials are examining all possible circumstances surrounding the incident, and the exact cause of death has not yet been determined.
The deceased has been identified as Pradeep Kumar Kulaste, a resident of Madhya Pradesh, who was posted in the battalion mess. According to officials, his body was discovered hanging from a tree within the battalion campus during the early hours of July 28.
Police Launch Investigation
According to Jagdalpur City Superintendent of Police (CSP) Sumit Kumar, the incident occurred at the CRPF 80th Battalion campus near the New Bus Stand in Jagdalpur. After receiving information about the incident, a team from Bodhghat Police Station immediately reached the spot, secured the area, and initiated legal proceedings.
Officials recovered a plastic rope from the scene, which has been taken into custody as part of the investigation. Following an inquest, the body was sent for post-mortem examination before being handed over to the deceased’s family.
Police believe the incident occurred between 3:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., though the timeline is still being verified through the ongoing investigation.
Mental Stress Being Examined
During the preliminary inquiry, investigators found indications that the jawan may have been experiencing mental stress in recent days. Police have also spoken with the deceased’s wife as part of the investigation. However, officials emphasized that the exact circumstances and reasons behind the incident have not yet been established, and all aspects are being examined before reaching any conclusion.
Speaking to the media, CSP Sumit Kumar said that while preliminary information points toward personal stress, the investigation is continuing to determine the complete facts.
Security Agencies Reviewing the Case
Apart from the local police, CRPF officials are also conducting their own internal inquiry to understand the circumstances leading to the incident. Investigators are reviewing the jawan’s recent activities, duty assignments, and other relevant factors to establish a clear sequence of events.
Authorities have stated that appropriate action will be taken after the investigation is completed and all evidence has been examined.
If You or Someone You Know Is Struggling
This incident also highlights the importance of mental health awareness among security personnel and the wider community. If you or someone you know is experiencing overwhelming emotional distress or thoughts of self-harm, reaching out to trusted family members, friends, colleagues, or a qualified mental health professional can make a significant difference.
If you are in India and need immediate emotional support, you can contact:
- Sneha Foundation – 044-24640050 (24×7)
- iCALL (Tata Institute of Social Sciences) – 9152987821 (Monday–Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.)
Seeking help is a sign of strength, and support is available.
