Delhi: Ailing, former IFS officer shoots himself

A 62-year-old former Indian Foreign Service officer allegedly committed suicide by shooting himself at his residence in south Delhi’s Shanti Niketan area on Wednesday, police said.

A 62-year-old former Indian Foreign Service officer allegedly committed suicide by shooting himself at his residence in south Delhi’s Shanti Niketan area on Wednesday, police said.

The deceased was identified as Rakesh Shankar, a 1979-batch officer who had taken voluntary retirement four years ago. His last posting was to Saudi Arabia.

The incident happened around 2.30pm after Shankar returned from routine visit to his physician. He was suffering from a lung infection. It is assumed that deteriorating health pushed the former diplomat to take the drastic step.

A poet-painter by hobby, Shankar left behind a two-page, bilingual suicide note where he took responsibility for his decision to end his life.

The police said they suspected no foul play in his death.