Kochi: In a tragic incident, a retired employee who was awaiting his PF (Provident Fund) for the last two years, eventually decided to end the wait, by claiming his own life. 

The incident happened at the PF regional office in Kaloor. PK Sivaraman (68), a Thrissur native, who was entitled to receive retirement benefits amounting to Rs 80,000 arrived at the PF office on Tuesday afternoon. The man who was also a cancer patient had lost hope of receiving the money owing to the prolonged delay. Out of distress, Sivaraman made a fatal decision. He consumed poison which he was carrying along with him inside a restroom located on the ground floor of the PF building. 

The veteran was rushed to a hospital but died while undergoing treatment on Wednesday early morning.     

Sivaraman used to be a contract worker at the Perambra Apollo Tyres. He had retired five years ago. Later on, he was diagnosed with cancer. After undergoing rigorous treatment for three years, he eventually felt better and set out to avail himself of his retirement benefits. But the events culminated in a disaster.

The deceased is survived by his wife and two children.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident. 

(Attention: Suicide is not a solution to any problem. Those struggling with mental health issues should seek help from professionals. The 'Disha' helpline provides free counselling and support services. Dial toll-free helpline number: 1056 or 0471-2552056)