Paralakhemundi: An AYUSH doctor Saturday committed suicide by consuming poison in his government quarters at Khajuripada under Nuagad block in Gajapati district.
The deceased was identified as Subodh Kumar Rath, doctor in-charge of the Khajuripada community health center (CHC). Police seized the body and sent it for post-mortem. A case of unnatural death was registered and a probe was on.
He took the extreme step when his family members were absent. The reason of his action is unclear. According to sources, Rath resided with his family in his quarters. He was alone for a couple of days as his family members had gone on a pilgrimage.
The medical staff grew apprehensive after he did not show up for his duty Saturday morning. They knocked at his door, but received no response. Suspecting foul play, they broke open the door and found him lying unconscious on the floor of the house, with froth coming out of his mouth.
On being informed, Khajuripada outpost officer ASI Jagadish Panda reached the spot and seized the body. Police recovered a poison bottle near the body.
“Preliminary investigation indicates the doctor committed suicide by consuming poison,” ASI Panda said adding that the postmortem will be carried out only after his family members arrive.