The deceased has been identified as Shishir Singh Rajput, a constable posted at the Shahdol Police Line. Preliminary findings suggest he fired the weapon near his neck, resulting in instantaneous death. A service rifle and a damaged mobile phone were recovered from the scene.

According to officials, Rajput was on duty at the protected centre when the incident took place. Investigators said he was speaking on his mobile phone moments before the shooting. Shortly thereafter, he reportedly threw the phone to the ground and used his rifle. The exact sequence of events and circumstances leading up to the incident are under investigation.

Other police personnel, who were resting nearby, rushed to the spot after hearing the gunshot and alerted senior officers. Kotwali police and officials from the police line arrived soon after, secured the area, and conducted a preliminary examination. Bloodstains were found at the site, and the mobile phone—found broken—was seized for forensic examination.

Senior officers said the initial assessment points to suicide, though no conclusion has been drawn at this stage. “We are examining call records, duty logs and other relevant evidence to ascertain the circumstances,” a police officer said. Statements of colleagues on duty and those present in the vicinity are being recorded as part of the inquiry.

Rajput was originally from Jabalpur. The son of late Sharad Singh, he was appointed as a child constable on compassionate grounds in 2013. After attaining the age of 18 in 2015, he was inducted as a regular constable. He had been serving at the Shahdol Police Line at the time of the incident.

Police officials said Rajput is survived by his mother and three sisters. The family has been informed, and arrangements are being made to hand over the body following the post-mortem examination.

The incident has raised questions about stress and welfare measures for personnel on duty. Authorities said established protocols are being followed and that the investigation will examine all aspects, including personal, professional and situational factors. Further details are expected after the post-mortem report and analysis of digital and forensic evidence.