New Delhi, August 14, 2026: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Union Home Secretary and the Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) over reports that 19 CRPF personnel died by suicide between January and May this year. The Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of the reported deaths and sought a detailed report from the authorities within two weeks.
The NHRC took note of a media report highlighting the number of suicides among CRPF personnel and expressed concern over the issue. The Commission observed that, if the reported figures are accurate, the matter raises serious questions concerning the protection of the right to life of personnel serving in the country’s largest Central Armed Police Force.
According to the report considered by the Commission, 19 CRPF personnel reportedly died by suicide during the first five months of 2026. The report also stated that 281 CRPF personnel died by suicide over the past five years, underlining the continuing concern over the well-being of personnel serving in the force.
The NHRC has directed the Union Home Secretary and CRPF Director General to submit a comprehensive report addressing the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths. The Commission’s intervention is aimed at obtaining detailed information from the authorities and examining whether adequate measures are being taken to protect the rights and welfare of CRPF personnel.
The development comes amid continuing concerns over the mental and physical well-being of personnel deployed in demanding operational environments. The NHRC has previously sought reports from the authorities regarding measures to address psycho-physical health concerns among personnel of central armed police forces, including the CRPF.
The Commission’s latest notice is expected to bring renewed attention to the need for effective institutional mechanisms to identify and address stress-related concerns among security personnel, while ensuring appropriate support and welfare measures for those serving in challenging conditions.
