New Delhi: In a surprising twist to what was earlier believed to be a case of attempted suicide, new details suggest that the fall of a Central Secretariat Service (CSS) officer from the 7th floor of Shastri Bhawan in New Delhi may actually have been triggered by a monkey scare – not a deliberate act.
Earlier, on Sunday, CSS officer Deepak Khoda fell from the seventh floor under suspicious circumstances. However, the investigation is ongoing, and the true picture will emerge only after a thorough probe.
Initial Reports Pointed to Suicide Attempt
Earlier reports had indicated that 33-year-old Deepak Khoda, a 2015-batch Section Officer posted in Shastri Bhawan, may have attempted suicide. He was found seriously injured after falling from the 7th floor of the central government building, prompting a swift response from emergency services and an immediate investigation.
However, as more details have emerged, the suicide theory – widely circulated in the early hours – is now being reconsidered.
Monkey Mayhem: A New Angle Emerges
According to some eyewitness accounts and informal sources close to the matter, Mr Khoda was reportedly speaking on the phone near a balcony when a monkey suddenly appeared, startling him. In an effort to escape the animal, he allegedly lost balance and fell off the building.
Fortunately, he landed on a vehicle loaded with water bottles, which absorbed much of the impact. While he sustained multiple injuries, including a fractured hand, the fall was not fatal.
Eyewitnesses Back Panic Theory
Sources confirm that the incident was witnessed by a few people nearby, who saw Mr Khoda panic and fall – rather than jump intentionally. These accounts have prompted investigators to reconsider earlier assumptions.
A police official, on condition of anonymity, said, “We are not ruling anything out, but there is a strong possibility that the fall was accidental. Panic due to a monkey could have led to the misstep.”
Currently Stable at RML Hospital
Mr Khoda is currently being treated at Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital. His condition is said to be stable, and he is expected to recover with time. Authorities are waiting for his full statement once he is in a condition to speak.
Investigation Underway
Police have deployed a team to thoroughly examine CCTV footage, speak to witnesses, and verify if the fall was an accident or induced by panic. No foul play is suspected at this stage, and a detailed report is awaited.
Growing Monkey Problem at Govt Buildings
This incident has once again thrown the spotlight on the increasing monkey menace in Lutyens’ Delhi, particularly around key government buildings like Shastri Bhawan, North Block, and South Block. Despite repeated complaints from staff, effective action against the urban wildlife threat remains inadequate.
A Wake-Up Call?
If confirmed to be a monkey-induced accident, the fall of a government officer from a high-security building due to wildlife interference would raise serious questions about safety protocols, especially in sensitive administrative zones.
It is worth noting that numerous complaints have been raised regarding the growing menace of monkeys in and around Shastri Bhawan. Employees have reported that groups of monkeys frequently approach balconies and windows, creating an atmosphere of constant fear and concern among the staff.
