Steephan Kayyar

Daijiworld Media Network - Kasargod

Kasargod, Mar 21: A shroud of gloom has descended upon Mogral following the tragic death of 32-year-old Muhammad Sawad, a dedicated school teacher and Booth Level Officer (BLO), who reportedly jumped to his death from the Mogral bridge near Kumbla.

Sawad, an educator at the Cherkala Government Higher Secondary School, had been reported missing by his family since Saturday morning. The frantic search ended in heartbreak when his abandoned motorcycle was discovered perched on the bridge, a silent witness to his final moments.

Local residents and distraught family members launched an immediate search of the waters below, eventually pulling a semi-conscious Sawad from the river. He was rushed to the Kasargod General Hospital, but despite the desperate efforts of medical staff, he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Following a formal post-mortem examination, his remains were released to his grieving kin.

As the local community reels from the loss, a significant debate has emerged regarding the catalyst for this extreme step. While his relatives have pointed to overwhelming work pressure as a potential factor—suggesting the dual burden of teaching and election-related duties may have taken a severe mental toll—preliminary police enquiries have uncovered a suicide note that complicates the narrative.

Investigating officers report that the recovered note explicitly cites 'personal reasons' for the act, shifting the primary focus of the ongoing probe away from professional grievances.

In response to the tragedy, district collector Arjun Pandian has stepped in to ensure a transparent inquiry, ordering a comprehensive investigation into the exact circumstances surrounding the teacher's death.

Emphasising the administration's support, the collector confirmed that the bereaved family would be guaranteed all eligible government benefits and assistance.

Suicide is not a solution to any problem. Kindly seek the help of mental health experts if you are under any kind of distress. Call toll free helpline number 9497900200.