AERO dies by suicide in Kolkata, family alleges “extreme SIR work pressure”

A 48-year-old Assistant Electoral Registration Officer (AERO), Malabika Roy Bhattacharya, died by suicide in South Kolkata’s Bansdroni, with her family alleging that prolonged mental stress caused by Special Intensive Revision (SIR) work led to the tragedy. The incident has raised serious concerns over the pressure faced by officials engaged in election-related duties. Police have registered a case of unnatural death and initiated an investigation.

According to family members, Malabika, who was posted as an Education Officer in Diamond Harbour Block 1, had been struggling with excessive workload for several months. Her husband, Amalesh Bhattacharya, claimed that the stress associated with SIR responsibilities had severely affected her mental health, leaving her overwhelmed and unable to cope.

The incident reportedly occurred late Sunday night when Malabika consumed pesticide at her residence. She fell critically ill and was initially rushed to a nearby nursing home before being shifted to another private hospital as her condition deteriorated. Despite undergoing treatment for two days, she succumbed on Tuesday morning.

Family members stated that she had repeatedly expressed her inability to manage the mounting workload and had even considered leaving her job. Her husband alleged that she had been battling severe mental distress and depression linked to the demands of SIR duties, which intensified in recent months.

Police officials confirmed that an investigation is underway, examining all aspects surrounding the death. The case has triggered wider concern about the mental health and working conditions of officials tasked with election responsibilities during high-pressure periods.