The mysterious death of Haryana IPS officer Puran Kumar has sparked widespread concern and speculation across the state. Four days after his demise, the officer’s family has finally agreed to allow a post-mortem examination. The process is expected to take place at a Chandigarh hospital on Friday morning, and sources indicate that the cremation may also be performed later in the day.
For the past four days, the officer’s body had been kept in the mortuary, as his family initially refused post-mortem proceedings. They alleged that the authorities were trying to portray his death as a suicide, whereas they suspected foul play. The family had insisted that they would not consent to an autopsy until the real cause of death was determined through a transparent investigation.
Repeated discussions between the administration and the family yielded no result until Thursday evening, when senior Haryana government officials personally intervened. Minister Krishan Lal Panwar, Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, and Additional Chief Secretary Sumita Misra met the bereaved family at their residence. After a two-hour-long discussion, they managed to convince the family that a post-mortem was essential to establish the truth behind the officer’s death.
Following the meeting, the family agreed to the autopsy. Authorities have since formed a special medical board comprising multiple doctors to conduct the post-mortem under official supervision.
Puran Kumar, a 2001-batch IPS officer known for his integrity and dedication, was found dead at his residence earlier this week. He was serving with the Haryana Home Department at the time. While police sources initially suggested the possibility of suicide, the family strongly denied it, stating that Kumar was mentally stable and could never take such an extreme step.
His death has triggered shockwaves in the state’s administrative and police circles. Some believe professional stress or internal disputes may have contributed to the tragedy, though officials have stated that every aspect will be thoroughly investigated once the post-mortem report is available.
The incident has also taken a political turn, with opposition leaders accusing the government of mishandling the case and failing to ensure transparency. In response, state authorities have reiterated their commitment to a fair and impartial investigation, assuring the family that justice will be served.
According to sources, Puran Kumar’s body may be handed over to the family by noon today for cremation in Chandigarh. Several senior police officers and bureaucrats are expected to attend the funeral to pay their respects.
The officer’s colleagues have expressed their grief on social media, describing him as “an honest, hardworking, and courageous officer whose loss is irreplaceable.”
