Indian Air Force Garud Commando Allegedly Commits Suicide on Duty at Air Force Station in Bhuj, Gujarat

Accident – Death – Obituary News : BHUJ: A Garud Commando of the Indian Air Force (IAF) reportedly took his own life by shooting himself with his service pistol while on duty at the Air Force Station near Bhuj in Gujarat’s Kutch district, according to the police. The incident occurred in the early hours of November 16 when the 23-year-old Yogeshkumar Mahato was posted on night duty.

Preliminary investigation suggests that Mahato committed suicide due to financial stress and other personal reasons. Sub-inspector D J Thakor of Bhuj ‘A’ Division police station stated, “Mahato was a native of Jharkhand and serving in the Garud Commando Force unit of the IAF at Bhuj Airforce Station. We learnt that he was facing some financial issues and was also under stress due to the deteriorating health of his mother, who lives in Jharkhand.”

The Garud Commando Force is an elite special forces unit of the IAF responsible for protecting critical air force bases and installations, as well as carrying out search and rescue operations, counter-terrorism, and hostage rescues.

The police have registered an accidental death report in which it is mentioned that Mahato shot himself in the head with his pistol during his night duty at the Bhuj Air Force Station. Upon learning about Mahato’s suicide attempt, his senior officer, Mahendra Pratap Singh, rushed him to GK General Hospital. Unfortunately, doctors declared him dead in the morning.

According to Singh, Mahato held the rank of a Leading Aircraftsman (LAC) and was part of the special forces unit of the IAF.

Suicides among defense personnel have raised concerns in recent years, with financial stress and personal issues being cited as major contributing factors. The Indian Armed Forces have taken measures to address mental health issues and provide necessary support to soldiers and their families. However, incidents like these highlight the need for further efforts to ensure the well-being of defense personnel and create a supportive environment within the armed forces.

The tragic loss of Yogeshkumar Mahato serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those in the military and the importance of addressing mental health issues. It is crucial to provide adequate resources and support systems to identify and help individuals who may be struggling with personal or financial pressures. The Indian Air Force and other branches of the armed forces must continue their efforts to prioritize the mental well-being of their personnel and ensure that they have access to the necessary assistance and counseling..