A 55-year-old Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) allegedly jumped to death from a high-rise in central Delhi’s ITO on Thursday morning. A note, which was recovered from his office, mentions personal reasons for the step.
Prem Ballabh was posted as an ACP with the crime and traffic unit. The incident took place at 10.15 a.m. when he was in his office cabin. He was spotted lying in a pool of blood near the porch on the ground floor.
He was rushed to Lok Nayak Hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead.
The incident was reported 15 minutes after he entered his office. Even his office staff was unaware of the incident. They were informed by police guards deployed on the ground floor.
The ACP’s family members were informed about the incident, said a police officer.
“Initial investigation has revealed that he was suffering from mental health issues and undergoing treatment at GTB Hospital,” the officer added.
The police have recovered certain documents, including a handwritten note, purportedly written by Ballabh. The note states that nobody is responsible for his death. Further enquiry is on.
Delhi Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik visited the hospital and extended all possible support to the grieving family members.
“The body was handed over to the family after post-mortem. The case is under investigation. We will try to speak to his family members and colleagues regarding the incident,” added the officer.
VRS application
A senior police officer said Ballabh had applied for Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) a few years ago but had withdrawn the application after being convinced by colleagues.
He had been posted as personal assistant to many police officers.
Ballabh joined the Delhi Police in 1986 as a Head Constable (Ministerial). He was recently awarded for meritorious service.
Suicide prevention helpline: Sanjivini, Society for Mental Health, 011-4076 9002, Monday-Saturday (10 a.m.-7.30 p.m.)