Pathanamthitta: Colleagues of Manoj, the village officer who allegedly committed suicide in Kadampanad, has filed a complaint to the district collector, demanding an investigation into his death. They want the officials to look into any ‘external influences’ which eventually forced their colleague to take the extreme step.   

A total of 12 village officers in Adoor Taluk have filed a joint complaint to the district collector demanding a holistic investigation.

Practices like illegal soil excavation and levelling of paddy fields are prevalent in Kadampanad village located in the Adoor taluk. It is now being alleged that Manoj as a village officer was put under immense pressure by the local politicians when he opposed such illegal practices. In the letter given to the district collector, the village officers accuse the law breakers of not allowing them to discharge their duties properly. Citing these reasons, they pushed forth their demand for a detailed probe into the death of their colleague.

Manoj was found hanging inside his house earlier this week. His brother had also raised similar suspicions over his death. He even lodged a complaint at the police station in this connection. Manoj was transferred to Kadampanad Village three months ago. His family members alleged that the previous village officer of Kadampanad had sought a transfer from the place fearing the ‘goons’.