Mental Health Struggles: Man Found Deceased in Forest

In a somber incident from the Patamda police station’s jurisdiction, the body of a man missing for five days was recovered from the Mathurapuri forest. The victim has been identified as Kanhai Mahto, aged 35, hailing from Bangurda village. He was last seen on Wednesday morning, leaving his home for what he thought would be a routine trip for morning prayers, but never returned. Kanhai, who was battling mental health challenges, worked as a laborer in a grain store in Kankin Bazaar to provide for his family. His disappearance triggered a widespread search operation by his family and friends across numerous local villages. Kanhai is survived by his wife and two daughters, as his parents are deceased. His eldest daughter is married and resides in Bankuchiya. A local political figure mentioned that while Kanhai had no apparent issues prior to going missing, his mental health condition sometimes resulted in unpredictable actions. Reports from shepherds in the Macha area indicate they saw Kanhai moving towards the forest near the CHC hospital on the day he disappeared. He reportedly did not reply when approached and walked rapidly into the dense foliage. Authorities believe Kanhai tragically ended his life by hanging from a tree. After being alerted by the shepherds, police found the body in the Mathurapuri forest on Monday. The body was taken to MGM Medical College’s cold storage and was identified by his family on Tuesday. An investigation is underway, with suicide being the primary suspicion.