Firing by Odia CISF constable in Kolkata museum: He was under severe mental stress, say jawan's family members

The Odia CISF jawan involved in the firing at a barrack inside Indian Museum in Kolkata was allegedly denied leave and was under severe mental stress, family members said on Sunday.

“He was a very cordial and friendly person. We still cannot believe that he could commit such a heinous crime. He was friendly with everyone from young to elderly people. Maybe there were some differences that forced him to take such extreme step,” his neighbour Nabaghana Sahu stated. 

“He was under severe mental stress because he had been denied leave,” he added.

According to sources, the CISF Jawan Akshay Kumar Mishra from Machia village under Kamakhyanagar block in Dhenkanal district was posted at a barrack at Kolkata Park Street’s Indian Museum.

He reportedly broke out in a fight with assistant commandant Subir Ghosh after the latter denied him leave. In a fit of rage, he snatched a loaded AK-47 rifle and opened fire at a police vehicle. 

An assistant sub-inspector Ranjit Sarangi was killed while commandant Subir Ghosh was critical in bullet the firing. He sustained bullet injuries to his right hand and has been admitted to a hospital. At least 25-30 rounds were fired inside the premises on Kyd Street in Central Kolkata.

The deceased ASI sustained bullet injuries in the throat, chest and hand. The shooter, Head Constable Akshay Kumar Mishra, was captured after one hour.

“I’m extremely saddened after hearing the news. He was very friendly with everyone. He talks to everyone and asks about their well-being whenever he comes to the village on holidays. He had just come a few days back for his father’s funeral. We still cannot find out why he took such an extreme step,” Durgamadhav Mishra, a relative brother said.