Pavagada: A senior official of the Social Welfare Department in Karnataka died by suicide at his office in Pavagada, just days before his scheduled retirement, with a video message alleging workplace harassment surfacing after the incident.
The deceased has been identified as Mallikarjun, who was serving as an Assistant Director in the department. He was a native of Gundarlahalli village near Pavagada and had been working in the department for the past three years.
Video message alleges harassment
According to police sources, Mallikarjun recorded a video before taking the extreme step and shared it with colleagues. In the video, he reportedly blamed a senior officer for his decision.
He specifically named Krishnappa, Joint Director in the department, alleging sustained harassment.
In the message, Mallikarjun expressed distress over his inability to support his family despite their care and support, and attributed his mental state to workplace issues. He also urged his family not to seek revenge, stating that justice would be delivered by law.
Incident just before retirement
Sources indicated that Mallikarjun was due to retire within a week, making the incident particularly tragic. His death has raised concerns about workplace stress and administrative pressures faced by government employees nearing retirement.
Police said the incident occurred on Wednesday at his office in Pavagada. Upon receiving information, officers rushed to the scene and initiated an investigation.
Probe underway
Authorities have registered a case and are examining the contents of the video as part of the investigation. Statements from colleagues and department officials are also being recorded to ascertain the circumstances leading to the incident.
Police have not yet confirmed the exact nature of the alleged harassment and stated that all angles are being probed.
Tragic family history
In a poignant development, it has emerged that Mallikarjun’s father had also worked in the same department and had passed away just months before his own retirement. Mallikarjun had reportedly secured his job on compassionate grounds following his father’s death.
The similarity in circumstances has added to the shock and grief surrounding the incident.
Previous similar case
The case has drawn parallels with a previous incident involving Chandrashekharan P, an Accounts Superintendent at the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation, who died by suicide in 2024.
In that case, a note reportedly cited harassment and pressure from colleagues, raising broader concerns about workplace conditions in certain government departments.
Concern over workplace stress
The incident has once again highlighted the issue of mental health and workplace stress among government employees. Experts have emphasised the need for institutional support systems, grievance redressal mechanisms, and counselling services to prevent such tragedies.
Conclusion
The death of the Social Welfare Department officer in Pavagada has triggered serious concerns about alleged workplace harassment and employee well-being. As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to examine the claims thoroughly and take appropriate action based on the findings.