Kashipur Farmer Suicide Case: Viral Video Sparks Outrage, Two Officers Suspended, Pega Police Station Staff Sent to Lines

Kashipur, Uttarakhand: The suicide of farmer and history-sheeter Sukhwant Singh in Kashipur has triggered a storm of outrage, following the circulation of a viral video in which he leveled serious allegations against police officials and influential individuals. Acting on directions from Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the police have taken swift action.

Incident Details

Sukhwant Singh, a resident of Kashipur, ended his life by shooting himself at a local hotel in the Gaulapar area under Kathgodam police jurisdiction. Prior to his death, Singh recorded a video message expressing deep anger and frustration, accusing certain individuals of harassment and undue pressure. He also alleged that police failed to address his complaints seriously, leaving him distressed.

The video quickly spread on social media, sparking public outrage and intense scrutiny of the police department’s handling of the case.

Police Response and Action

SSP Manikant Mishra of Udham Singh Nagar district immediately launched an inquiry into the matter. As a result:

• Two officers suspended: Sub-Inspector Kundan Singh Routela (Thana ITI) and Sub-Inspector Prakash Bisht were suspended for negligence and dereliction of duty. Departmental disciplinary proceedings have been initiated, and both officers have been sent to the police lines during the suspension period.
• Pega Police Station staff lined up: The entire staff of Pega Police Station, including Station In-charge Sub-Inspector Jitendra Kumar, Additional Sub-Inspector Somveer Singh, Head Constable Shekhar Bankoti, and constables Bhupendra Singh, Dinesh Tiwari, Suresh Chandra, Yogesh Chaudhary, Rajendra Giri, Deepak Prasad, and Sanjay Kumar, have been placed on lines. Further action against them will depend on the outcome of ongoing investigations.

Chief Minister’s Stand

CM Pushkar Singh Dhami described the incident as regrettable and tragic, emphasizing that a transparent investigation is underway. He assured that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty. Following the CM’s statement, police in Kashipur intensified their operations to ensure accountability.

SSP’s Warning

SSP Manikant Mishra issued a stern warning, stating:
“Ignoring public grievances can have severe consequences. If a person feels compelled to take such a drastic step due to denial of justice, it reflects a major failure of the police system. The investigation is ongoing, and any other officer or employee found to be complicit will face strict action.”

The case underscores the urgency for responsiveness and accountability in handling complaints, particularly in sensitive cases involving vulnerable citizens.