A 45-year-old railway employee allegedly died by suicide in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur Dehat district on Thursday morning, with his family claiming that workplace harassment and theft accusations drove him to take the extreme step.

The deceased has been identified as Vijay Pal Paswan, a resident of Hridaypur village under the Gajner police station limits. His body was found hanging from a tree outside the village, prompting shock and grief among locals.

Body found, police begin probe

On receiving information, police rushed to the spot and initiated an investigation. The body was taken into custody and sent for post-mortem examination, officials said.

According to police, Vijay Pal had left home around 7.30 am, telling his family that he was going to duty. A few hours later, villagers noticed his body hanging from a tree on the outskirts of the village and alerted authorities.

Family alleges workplace harassment

Vijay Pal’s elder son, Arun, alleged that his father had been under severe mental stress for the past three days after three of his colleagues accused him of theft.

“He was very disturbed after the allegations,” Arun told reporters. “Before ending his life, my father recorded a video narrating his ordeal and sent it to me.”

The family has demanded a fair investigation and strict action against those responsible for allegedly harassing Vijay Pal.

Video message part of investigation

Station House Officer Janardan Pratap Singh confirmed that the video recorded by the deceased is being examined as part of the investigation.

“Vijay Pal Paswan was working as an assistant electrician in the Railways,” the SHO said. “The investigation is being conducted based on the video made before his death. Necessary action will be taken after receiving a formal complaint.”

Police officials added that statements from family members and colleagues would be recorded to ascertain the circumstances that led to the incident.

Community in shock

The incident has left Hridaypur village in mourning, with residents expressing concern over mental health pressures faced by employees due to workplace disputes and allegations.

The case has also reignited discussions on the need for stronger grievance redressal mechanisms and mental health support for employees in public sector organisations.

Further action is expected once the post-mortem report and detailed inquiry findings are available.