Indian Army soldier commits suicide in occupied Kashmir, taking tally to over 100 for the year

Indian Army soldier commits suicide in occupied Kashmir, taking tally to over 100 for the year

NEW DELHI - Indian Army soldier posted in occupied Kashmir committed suicide on Friday.

Lance Naik Parvesh Kumar Mishra from Romeo Battery Company of 118 Medium Regiment killed himself by using his own rifle, the Indian mediareported.

He was posted near Challa village in RS Pura district of the occupied valley.

According to police, Mishra ended his life with two bullets fired from his service weapon. His body was handed over to his family following the medico-legal formalities.

At least 100 personnel of Indian security forces finish their lives every year despite several measures taken by successive governments to reduce stress and anxiety prevalent in soldiers.

According to a report by the Indian defence ministry, 80% suicide cases belonged to armed forces of the country.

Prolonged deployment for counter-insurgency operations in the Himalayan valley and north-east region takes a toll on the physical strength and mental health of the Indian soldiers.

The local media cites poor salaries, lack of basic facilities, rejection of leaves and incompetent leadership remains the other factors for their suicides.