Joshita Das Suicide: PWD Probes Site, Public Seeks Contractor's Arrest

In a shocking turn of events, explosive revelations have emerged in the suicide case of Assistant Engineer Joshita Das, who was found dead under suspicious circumstances in Bongaigaon. A suicide note left behind by Das has brought to light serious allegations of corruption and mental harassment within the Public Works Department (PWD), reportedly involving high-ranking officials.

In response, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had earlier on Wednesday directed a thorough investigation into the matter, particularly into allegations of financial and procedural irregularities in the construction of a stadium project in the district. 

Following the Chief Minister’s directive, a five-member inspection team from the Public Works Department (PWD), led by Assistant Chief Engineer Mahendra Mohan Das, visited the under-construction stadium site in Bongaigaon for a preliminary assessment. According to the team’s report, no irregularities were found in the construction process.

The investigation comes under the purview of Case No. 188/25, and the arrest has already been made under Section 108/3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), with Executive Engineer Dinesh Sharma now in custody. SDO Aminul Islam has also been arrested by Bongaigaon police in connection with the case.

However, this stands in stark contrast to allegations made by the late engineer’s family. Joshita Das' mother stated that her daughter had earlier expressed concerns about substandard construction practices. Specifically, Joshita reportedly told her that 8 mm iron rods were being used in place of the prescribed 12 mm rods for structural work.

Despite these claims, the PWD team has maintained that all construction materials and processes at the site complied with required standards.

However, Joshita Das’ mother has made statements that contradict the claims made by the officials, demanding a proper and unbiased investigation. Local organisations have echoed the demand, calling for the arrest of contractor Rudra Pathak, whose name has allegedly been mentioned in connection with the project irregularities. They have questioned why Pathak has not yet been brought under the ambit of the investigation.

Meanwhile, questions are being raised about whether senior PWD officials have tried to mislead the investigation or hide evidence by denying any maintenance or procedural lapses. Calls for accountability are growing louder as the situation unfolds, with both the public and local bodies demanding justice for Joshita Das and a comprehensive probe into corruption within the department.

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