Silchar: A Border Security Force (BSF) head constable died allegedly by suicide using his service rifle while on duty at an observatory along the international border in Assam's Sribhumi district on Saturday evening. The deceased was identified as Prem Kumar (44), a resident of Punjab and a member of the 171 Battalion of the BSF under the Mizoram and Cachar Frontier.
Incident Details
According to BSF sources, the incident occurred at the Deopur observatory under the Steamerghat Border Outpost (BOP), where Kumar was posted on duty. Fellow personnel heard a gunshot and found him lying in a pool of blood. He was declared dead at the scene. Preliminary investigations suggest that Kumar used his service weapon to shoot himself, but the circumstances leading to the incident are unclear. Officials have not yet confirmed whether any suicide note was recovered from the spot.
Investigation and Response
Following the incident, local police and BSF authorities launched separate investigations. The body was recovered in the presence of an executive magistrate and sent to Sribhumi civil hospital for autopsy. Senior BSF officers, including the commandant of the 171 Battalion from the force headquarters at Masimpur, visited the outpost to review the situation.
Colleagues' Observations
Sources said Kumar had appeared normal during the day and had carried out his duties as usual. Colleagues reportedly did not notice any signs of distress or unusual behaviour prior to the incident. His body was sent to his native place in Punjab on Sunday. He is survived by family members in the state.
About the Author
BB Goswami is a seasoned journalist with The Times of India, reporting from Silchar. Known for his sharp political insights and grassroots coverage, he brings depth to stories from Barak Valley and beyond. His work reflects a commitment to factual reporting and amplifying voices from Assam's southern frontier.
