Jadavpur University Professor found dead in Uttarakhand hotel; Police investigating suicide or murder

Mainak Pal, a professor from the Department of Philosophy at Jadavpur University, was found dead in a hotel room in Almora, Uttarakhand, on November 9, 2024. The 44-year-old had gone to Almora with a group of friends for a short vacation. According to local police, Pal’s bloodied body was discovered after they forcibly broke down the door of his hotel room. While the cause of death remains undetermined, preliminary reports suggest the possibility of suicide, though the police have not ruled out foul play. A detailed investigation is currently underway, and authorities are awaiting the autopsy report for further clarity.

Pal had been scheduled to return to Kolkata a few days before the discovery of his body. His death came to light when hotel staff grew concerned after he missed check-out time and was unresponsive to repeated calls. Local police were called, and upon entering the room, they found Pal’s body in a bloodied state. While there were no signs of forced entry, the room showed no immediate signs of struggle, leaving investigators with multiple theories to explore. The police are focusing on both suicide and potential homicide, with a full forensic examination being conducted.

The incident has left the academic community in shock. Parthapratim Roy, the General Secretary of the Jadavpur University Teachers' Association (JUTA), expressed his disbelief, saying, “We heard that he had gone on a trip with friends and was supposed to return the day before yesterday. His body was found in a hotel. Mainak was a very calm and well-mannered person, and it is hard to believe this happened.” Pal’s family, who have been in contact with authorities, also voiced strong disbelief, insisting that their loved one would never have taken his own life. The police investigation continues as they search for answers regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.