Almora, Uttarakhand – Mr. Deepak Belwal, a 45-year-old manager at a Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (K.M.V.N.) LPG agency in Almora, Uttarakhand, died by suicide on Tuesday. His demise has triggered both a police investigation and an internal inquiry by K.M.V.N., following immediate claims by colleagues attributing the incident to alleged "excessive work pressure" and "mental harassment" from senior officials.

Mr. Belwal was discovered at his residence, prompting an immediate response from his colleagues. Within hours of the tragic event, a group of employees submitted a memorandum to the District Magistrate of Almora. The document reportedly detailed grievances concerning strenuous working conditions and pressure within the public sector undertaking. The memorandum specifically highlighted a perceived environment of "excessive work pressure" and "mental harassment," urging authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into these allegations.

Colleagues further outlined specific demands, which included a comprehensive and impartial probe into the circumstances leading to Mr. Belwal's death. They also requested adequate compensation for his family and a dependent job for one of his family members, citing his long tenure and dedicated service.

Mr. Belwal had served with K.M.V.N. for approximately 22 years, a period during which he was reportedly known for his commitment. Sources indicate he had recently been transferred to the Almora agency from Nainital. The K.M.V.N. operates ten LPG agencies across the Kumaon region, playing a crucial role in gas distribution for the state.

Key details surrounding the incident and subsequent actions include:

  • Deceased: Mr. Deepak Belwal, aged 45.
  • Position: Manager, Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (K.M.V.N.) LPG agency, Almora.
  • Date of Demise: Tuesday, May 28, 2024.
  • Allegations by Colleagues: "Excessive work pressure" and "mental harassment" from senior officials.
  • Actions Taken by Colleagues: Submission of a memorandum to the District Magistrate of Almora.
  • Demands by Colleagues: Thorough investigation, compensation for the family, and a job for a family member.
  • Investigative Bodies: Local police have initiated an inquiry, and K.M.V.N. has commenced an internal investigation.

In response to the gravity of the situation, Dr. Sandeep Tiwari, Managing Director of K.M.V.N., confirmed that the corporation has launched an internal inquiry to examine the allegations and the broader working environment. The local police have also registered a case and are conducting their own investigation into the incident, gathering evidence and statements to ascertain the precise factors that contributed to Mr. Belwal's death.

Both the police and K.M.V.N. investigations are currently underway. The findings are anticipated to provide clarity on the circumstances and potential contributing factors, addressing the concerns raised by Mr. Belwal's colleagues and the wider community regarding employee well-being within state-run enterprises. The outcome of these inquiries will be crucial in determining any further actions or policy changes to ensure employee welfare.