Former Delhi Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta, a 1975-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer who served during Sheila Dikshit’s tenure as Delhi Chief Minister, died by suicide at his residence in Noida, police said. A note recovered from the house referred to prolonged health and mental health problems and stated that no one was responsible for his death.
Mehta was found dead at his rented residence in Kendriya Vihar-2 Society in Sector 82, Noida, on September 6. Police began an investigation after his family members were unable to contact him and alerted the housing society’s security staff. A forensic examination and post-mortem were subsequently carried out.
Police recover note from Noida home
According to police, the note recovered from the residence mentioned prolonged illness and health-related difficulties. Reports said Mehta had been suffering from conditions including hypertension and diabetes.
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death. The note is being examined as part of the inquiry, while officials have not indicated any suspicion of foul play in the available reports.
Family alerted police after calls went unanswered
Mehta had reportedly been living alone at the Noida residence. His wife, also a retired IAS officer of the Delhi cadre, was in Dehradun at the time, while their son lives there. The family became concerned after repeated attempts to contact him were unsuccessful.
A security guard was subsequently asked to check on the residence. Police were informed after there was no response, and officers reached the flat. Mehta’s last rites were performed at the Lodhi Road crematorium in Delhi on Monday.
Served as Delhi Chief Secretary from 2007
Mehta took charge as Delhi’s Chief Secretary in 2007 during the Sheila Dikshit government and remained in the position until his retirement in November 2010.
Before becoming the capital’s top bureaucrat, he held several senior administrative positions in Delhi. His career included a stint as Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, along with responsibilities associated with transport, power and civic administration.
Role during 2010 Commonwealth Games
The 2010 Commonwealth Games were held in Delhi during Mehta’s tenure as Chief Secretary. His administration was involved in preparations and the execution of several projects connected with the capital’s infrastructure.
Former colleagues have also credited him with involvement in major transport, power and civic initiatives undertaken during his time in Delhi’s administration.
Investigation remains underway
Police have initiated an inquiry into the circumstances of Mehta’s death. Officials have recovered the note and other relevant material from the residence as part of the investigation.
The incident has brought attention to the final years of a senior bureaucrat who spent decades in public administration and held some of Delhi’s most important government positions.
For anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or feeling unable to cope, immediate support from a trusted person or a qualified mental-health professional can be important. In India, emergency assistance can be sought through 112.
