Forest Watcher Dies by Suicide, Family Alleges Harassment by Forest Officer

He left behind a death note blaming an RFO for his death; kin demand a thorough probe

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @Mysuru

IN a shocking incident that has now come to light a week after it occurred, a forest watcher allegedly died by suicide in Sargur taluk of Mysuru district, leaving behind a death note blaming a Range Forest Officer (RFO) for his death.

The deceased, P Suresh (34), a resident of Berambadi village in Gundlupet taluk, was found dead in a decomposed state in the quarters allotted to forest staff on April 23. In his death note, which has been recovered, Suresh has reportedly accused RFO of Molyeur range Amruta Mayappanavar of subjecting him to constant harassment, which allegedly led him to take the extreme step.

The incident has sparked outrage among the family members and local residents, especially Adivasi communities who are demanding justice for Suresh.