Tragedy Unfolds: CSS Officer's Suicide Attempt Sparks Alarming Harassment Allegations

A distressing incident has cast a shadow over the corridors of power in Delhi, as a 33-year-old Central Secretariat Service (CSS) official tragically attempted to take his own life within the premises of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) building in North Block. The harrowing event, which occurred last Saturday, has led to a formal police complaint filed by the victim's family, accusing a senior officer of relentless harassment and mental anguish.

The young official, whose identity has been withheld for privacy, was found in a critical condition after reportedly consuming poison.

He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital where, thankfully, his condition has since been stabilized, and he is now out of danger, though still recovering from the traumatic experience. The incident has sent shockwaves through the MHA, prompting not only a police investigation but also an internal inquiry by the ministry itself.

According to the complaint lodged with the Delhi Police, the victim endured an unbearable period of alleged 'unnecessary pressure' and 'mental harassment' at the hands of a superior.

Family members claim that the senior officer consistently subjected the official to tasks far beyond his designated duties, even extending these demands to weekends, effectively denying him any personal time or respite. The situation reportedly escalated to the point where the victim was explicitly threatened with suspension, creating an atmosphere of intense fear and intimidation.

Responding to the gravity of the allegations, the Delhi Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) at the North Avenue police station.

The case has been filed under significant sections of the Indian Penal Code: Section 309, pertaining to the attempt to commit suicide, and Section 506, addressing criminal intimidation. This formal legal action underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the complaint and the underlying accusations of professional misconduct and psychological torment.

As the investigation proceeds, police officials are meticulously examining the circumstances that led to this desperate act.

They are expected to interview colleagues, review workplace dynamics, and gather any available evidence to corroborate the harassment claims. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Home Affairs has launched its own internal probe, signaling a commitment to address the issue from within and ensure accountability.

This dual-pronged approach aims to uncover the full truth behind the allegations and implement necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the immense pressures faced by individuals in demanding work environments and the critical importance of fostering a supportive and respectful workplace culture.

As the young CSS official recovers, his family and colleagues hope for justice and a thorough resolution to the issues that pushed him to such an extreme step, emphasizing the need for robust mechanisms to address workplace harassment effectively.