Lucknow: This is as bizarre an official explanation for negligence of duty as you would have ever heard.
A constable of Pradeshik Armed Constabulary (PAC), Uttar Pradesh’s paramilitary force, was asked to explain why he arrived late for a crucial debriefing.
Replying to the notice, the constable wrote: “My wife and I are quarrelling, she comes in my dreams, sits on my chest and tries to drink my blood. That’s why I can’t sleep at night. This is why I wasn’t able to come on time.”
The notice dated February 17, 2025, was a warning issued by PAC 44th Battalion G-Squad Commander Madhu Sudhan Sharma, for misconduct on duty.
The letter, which went viral along with the constable’s reply, reads: “On 16 February at 9 am, you were expected to attend a duty briefing by the in-charge battalion commander. Despite being informed of the time, you arrived late, unshaven, and in uniform that was not up to standard. This instance is not isolated, as your late arrival for group work and team counts has been observed on multiple occasions. Such behaviour demonstrates a lack of interest in your duties and reflects poorly on your commitment to government work. Within a disciplined force like the PAC, this disregard for punctuality and presentation constitutes gross negligence and signifies indiscipline and arbitrariness. Please explain your actions.”
The constable was asked to submit a written explanation within a day to the team office, failing which further disciplinary action would be taken against him.
His unusual and emotional reply stumped everyone concerned. Stating that he was affected by sleeplessness and distress, the constable said he was under medication for depression and irritability.
He claimed that his mother suffered from a nerve disease, which added to his sadness.
He added that he felt hopeless and had lost the will to live, In a dramatic plea, he sought guidance from his superior officer on how to surrender himself to God so he can escape his suffering.