Bhatti meets family of deceased Dalit IPS officer Puran Kumar in Chandigarh, condemns delay in justice

Chandigarh: Deputy Chief Minister Mall Bhatti Vikramarka on Monday visited the family of late IPS officer Puran Kumar, who died by suicide in Chandigarh, allegedly due to caste-based harassment by senior officials.

Bhatti Vikramarka conveyed his condolences to the grieving family and assured them that the Telangana government would stand firmly with them during this difficult period.

Deputy CM offers support and speaks to CM Revanth Reddy

During the visit, Bhatti Vikramarka met Puran Kumar’s partner, IAS officer Amanmeet and other family members, offering emotional support and solidarity.

He also arranged a telephonic interaction with Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, who extended his condolences and promised all possible assistance to the bereaved family.

“The Telangana government stands with Puran Kumar’s family and shares their grief,” the Chief Minister assured.

Call for justice and accountability

The deputy chief minister also held discussions with Haryana Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, who was present to console IAS officer Amanmeet.

Bhatti Vikramarka demanded that the Haryana government and Chandigarh Police initiate strict legal action against those named in the suicide note, regardless of their rank or status.

“No one is above the law. Those responsible for driving a young, talented Dalit officer to suicide must face justice,” he asserted.

‘Puran Kumar’s death reflects deep-rooted caste bias’

Speaking to the media later, Bhatti Vikramarka described Puran Kumar as an exceptionally bright officer, an alumnus of Osmania University and IIM Ahmedabad, and a recipient of the President’s Medal at a young age.

He condemned the alleged caste-based harassment that led to the officer’s death, calling it a serious blot on the system. “His suicide note must be treated as a dying declaration. It’s distressing that even after so many days, no concrete action has been taken by the authorities,” the Deputy CM said.

Demand for protection and support to family

Bhatti Vikramarka urged the Haryana and Chandigarh administrations to provide security and financial support to the officer’s elderly parents and his two young daughters.

He criticised the BJP-led government for failing to act against senior officer Kapoor, whom he accused of being ‘anti-Dalit,’ yet promoted as DGP despite serious allegations. “It is shameful that even in independent India, a Dalit officer’s family must plead for justice,” he said.

‘We seek rule of law, not favour’

Clarifying that his demand was not politically motivated, the Deputy CM stated, “We are not asking for any special favour. We only want the law to be implemented in letter and spirit. Governments must uphold the Constitution and ensure justice.”

Congress leaders extend solidarity

Several senior Congress leaders accompanied Bhatti Vikramarka during his visit, including AICC SC Cell chairman and Jharkhand in-charge Koppula Raju, Chandigarh Congress president Harmohinder Singh Lucky.

They collectively demanded a transparent probe and accountability from those involved, reaffirming the party’s commitment to fight against caste-based discrimination and uphold social justice.