What Happened to Haryana IPS Officer Puran Kumar?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Puran Kumar's death raises serious concerns about police integrity.
- The government has committed to a thorough investigation.
- Public scrutiny is essential for accountability in law enforcement.
- Familial support and transparency are crucial during investigations.
- Systemic issues within the police force must be addressed.
Chandigarh, Oct 15 (NationPress) After a prolonged nine-day deadlock regarding the post-mortem of senior Haryana cadre Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Y. Puran Kumar, who reportedly took his own life, the final rites were conducted with the approval of his wife and IAS officer Amneet P. Kumar.
The deadlock was resolved following the Haryana government's pledge to the family for a thorough and unbiased investigation, alongside a commitment to take action against any “erring” officials.
The funeral saw attendance from Puran Kumar's family, colleagues—including O.P. Singh, who has stepped in as Director General of Police in place of Shatrujeet Kapur—bureaucrats, politicians, and numerous supporters.
Upon the family's approval, an autopsy was performed at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER).
The PGIMER confirmed that the post-mortem of Puran Kumar was executed on Wednesday by a designated medical board, adhering to all appropriate protocols. The findings will be forwarded to the investigating officer of the Special Investigation Team (SIT).
“The mortal remains of Y. Puran Kumar have been respectfully handed over to the family members,” stated PGIMER.
The police reported that Additional Director General of Police Puran Kumar shot himself with his service weapon and succumbed to his injuries immediately. He left behind a nine-page note implicating 15 current and former officers, raising concerns about casteism and bias within the state's police leadership.
In response to demands from Puran Kumar’s family for accountability, the government placed DGP Shatrujeet Kapur on leave amid allegations of harassment.
For over a week, negotiations persisted between Puran Kumar’s wife, Amneet P. Kumar, and the government regarding the desired arrests of DGP Kapur and the dismissed Rohtak Superintendent of Police Narendra Bijarniya.
In a troubling development, a Haryana Police assistant sub-inspector was discovered deceased with a gunshot wound on Tuesday, accompanied by an alleged suicide note accusing the late Puran Kumar of corruption.
Amneet Kumar remarked that Chandigarh Police assured her of a fair and impartial inquiry. The Haryana government has also promised that any officials found culpable will face legal consequences.
“Considering the evidentiary importance of a timely post-mortem and in the larger interest of justice, I have agreed for the same to be carried out as per the prescribed procedure by the constituted board of doctors, with the presence of a ballistic expert, under the supervision of a magistrate, and with videography of the entire process to ensure complete transparency,” she stated.
“In light of the ongoing investigation, no further public statement shall be issued at this stage,” she added.
Prior to this, Chandigarh Police, investigating the IPS officer’s suicide case, petitioned the Chief Judicial Magistrate’s Court in Chandigarh for authorization to proceed with the post-mortem and identification of the body. The court subsequently directed the family to provide a response by Wednesday.