The deceased, a resident of Balod district, had been living near Kushwaha Bhavan, Madia Chowk in Jagdalpur for some time. According to police, the car in which the body was discovered is a Rajnandgaon-passing vehicle.

Morning walkers raise alarm

Local residents who were out for their morning walk noticed the SDO lying unconscious in the driver’s seat of the vehicle. They immediately informed the Bodhghat police, who rushed to the scene, unlocked the car, and retrieved the body for further examination.

Bodhghat police station in-charge Leeladhar Rathore confirmed that initial inspection revealed no external injury marks on the body. “We are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death. The body has been sent for post-mortem, which will provide clarity on the cause of death,” he said.

Evidence of alcohol consumption

During the preliminary examination of the car, police recovered a bottle of alcohol and accompanying snacks, indicating that the SDO may have consumed alcohol in the vehicle on the night of February 13. Whether alcohol consumption contributed to the death is yet to be determined.

Investigation ongoing

While authorities are considering possibilities ranging from a cardiac arrest to other natural causes, no foul play has been confirmed at this stage. Police are awaiting the post-mortem report, which is expected to provide more definitive answers.

Devhari’s sudden death has shocked local residents and government officials alike, given his prominent role in the state medical services department. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.