A total of 181 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel have committed suicide over the past three and a half years, with Uttar Pradesh (22) and Bihar (17) reporting the highest numbers.
In a written response to a question in Lok Sabha, Junior Home Minister, Nityanand Rai stated that there is no upward trend in CRPF suicides. The figures are 57 in 2021, 43 in 2022, 57 in 2023, and 24 until June 30 this year.
A state-wise breakdown reveals Uttar Pradesh as the most affected with 22 suicides, followed by Bihar with 17, Haryana with 15, and Assam and Rajasthan each reporting 14 suicides. In terror and insurgency-hit regions, Jammu and Kashmir recorded four suicides, while Naxalism-affected Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand reported six and three suicides respectively, and Manipur had one suicide.
Outlining measures to prevent suicides within the CRPF, Rai mentioned improvements in the living conditions of personnel and the establishment of a dedicated, toll-free helpline for psychological counseling. A robust grievance redressal system has been implemented, and regular interactions between commanders and troops are ensured.
To address the issue of leave, often cited as a major grievance, an e-leave app has been introduced, allowing jawans to apply for leave and track the status of their requests in real time. Additionally, sports, leisure activities, and yoga are being promoted at lower formations to help reduce stress levels, Rai informed Lok Sabha.
