Agartala: Tripura Director General of Police (DGP) Anurag Dhankar, a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, was found dead at the state police headquarters in Agartala on Monday, sending shockwaves through the state’s police establishment and government. Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, while officials have urged the public to avoid speculation until the inquiry is completed.
Dhankar, a 1994-batch IPS officer, had been serving as the head of the Tripura Police since May 2025. He was rushed to Govind Ballabh Pant (GB) Hospital after being found at his office, where doctors declared him dead.
Investigation underway
Police have initiated a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause and circumstances of Dhankar’s death.
Preliminary media reports have suggested that the senior officer may have died by suicide, with some reports indicating he may have used his service pistol. However, officials have not officially confirmed the cause of death, and the findings will depend on the post-mortem examination and the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have refrained from making any definitive statements regarding the incident while forensic and investigative procedures continue.
Senior officials visit hospital
Following the incident, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, senior government officials and top police officers visited GB Pant Hospital.
The state administration said an official probe has been launched and assured that all aspects of the case would be examined before any conclusions are drawn.
The sudden death of the state’s top police officer has left colleagues and members of the law enforcement community stunned.
Distinguished policing career
Dhankar was regarded as one of Tripura’s most experienced IPS officers, with more than three decades of service.
Before becoming the state’s Director General of Police, he served in several senior positions, including Director General (Intelligence) in Tripura. He also had an extensive tenure with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), where he was associated with several high-profile investigations.
His career also included an international assignment with the United Nations Mission in Kosovo during 2003–04, giving him valuable global policing experience.
Recipient of distinguished service honours
During his career, Dhankar received several prestigious honours for his service in the Indian Police Service.
He was awarded the Police Medal for Meritorious Service as well as the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service, recognising his contributions to policing and public service over the years.
His appointment as Tripura’s police chief in 2025 was seen as a recognition of his extensive operational and investigative experience.
State mourns senior IPS officer
The news of Dhankar’s death has prompted condolences from across the administration and the police fraternity.
As investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident, officials have appealed for restraint and cautioned against circulating unverified information.
Further details are expected after the completion of the post-mortem examination and the official investigation.