What Drove an IPS Officer to End His Life?
Death of Haryana IPS officer Y. Puran Kumar has exposed serious caste-based discrimination struggles within the system. This sparked outrage demanding justice and reform.
On 7 October 2025, senior Haryana IPS officer Y. Puran Kumar was found dead at his official residence in Chandigarh. Early reports say it was a suicide. He left behind a typed note and a will naming 16 senior officers, accusing them of harassment, humiliation, and caste-based discrimination.
Who Was Puran Kumar?
A 2001-batch IPS officer from the Haryana cadre, Kumar had served in several key posts and was working as Additional Director General of Police (ADGP). His wife, Amneet P. Kumar, is an IAS officer, and they have two daughters. In his note, he alleged that senior officers stopped his benefits, gave poor reviews, and mentally tortured him for years.
A Second Death Adds Twist
Just a week later, on 14 October, ASI Sandeep Kumar Lathar, who was investigating the case, also died by suicide. In a video and note, he accused Puran Kumar of corruption and favouritism, and demanded an inquiry into his assets. His death raised serious doubts about pressure and internal conflicts within the police.
Family Demands Justice
Amneet Kumar refused to allow her husband’s cremation until all the officers named in his note were booked. After official assurances of a fair probe, Puran Kumar was cremated on 15 October in Chandigarh, amid anger and calls for justice.
Political and Public Reaction
The case triggered massive public outrage. BSP leaders threatened protests if action was not taken, while Congress accused Haryana’s DGP of bias. Dalit and rights groups called it an example of caste discrimination within the police system.
Investigation Updates
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed. The FIR now includes stronger sections under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Haryana DGP Shatrujeet Kapur has been sent on leave, and SP Narendra Bijarnia replaced. Forensic and digital evidence are being analysed.
Bigger Questions Raised
This case has opened discussions on caste bias, misuse of power, lack of safe complaint channels, and mental health issues among officers. Many hope for a transparent investigation that restores faith in the system and delivers justice to all.
