A forest department employee was reportedly found dead in his official quarters near the forest department in Bhalki town of Bidar district on Friday.
The police suspect that it was a suicide.
The deceased was identified as Ankush Sudham, 57, a forest watcher from Bolegaon village in Bhalki taluk. According to sources, he was found hanged at his residence on Friday morning.
Former Union Minister Bhagwanth Khuba called for a thorough investigation into the incident, noting that it took place in the constituency of Forest, Environment and Ecology Minister Eshwar Khandre.
In a post on his official Facebook account, Mr Khuba alleged that pressure from the minister made the employee end his life and alleged that forest officials were trying to protect those responsible by making baseless allegations against the deceased.
He demanded a thorough investigation into the matter and asked Mr. Khandre to resign till the investigation was completed.
(Those who are distressed or suicidal can seek help and advice from Arogya Sahayavani 104.)
Published – 06 Feb 2026 19:54 IST