On poll duty in Bengal, CRPF head constable shoots self at camp in Murshidabad

In a shocking incident amid heightened security deployment for the West Bengal Assembly elections, a CRPF jawan allegedly attempted suicide at a camp in Murshidabad district, triggering concern within security agencies.

The incident occurred in the Shaktipur police station area under the Rejinagar Assembly constituency, where central forces are stationed at Bazarshau Higher Secondary School.

According to sources, a head constable from the 142nd battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) shot himself using his service rifle while on election duty.

The bullet reportedly pierced through his left shoulder, leaving him seriously injured. The jawan, a resident of South India, had returned just a month ago after completing election duty in Assam, indicating a prolonged period of continuous deployment.

He was immediately rushed to Berhampore Medical College and Hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment. Hospital sources confirmed that his condition is now stable, and he remains under close medical supervision.

The incident has once again brought attention to a troubling pattern within paramilitary forces. Earlier this month, a jawan on election duty in Digha had attempted suicide by firing from his service rifle.

In February, another jawan lost his life while on duty in Odisha. Officials and experts point out that extended separation from family, coupled with physically and mentally demanding assignments, often contributes to severe stress among personnel.

Following the Rejinagar incident, a sense of unease briefly spread among other security personnel deployed at the polling station.

Senior district administration officials visited the site to assess the situation. Authorities are closely monitoring the injured jawan’s condition, while CRPF officials are attempting to contact his family.

With elections underway, discussions have begun within administrative and security circles over whether such incidents could impact deployment efficiency and morale.

However, officials have indicated that security arrangements remain intact. Meanwhile, the Shaktipur police have initiated a detailed investigation to ascertain the exact circumstances leading to the incident.