Kolkata footballer Debashish Pradhan commits suicide at home

Former Kolkata footballer Debashish Pradhan, aged 27, tragically died by suicide late Wednesday night at his home in Howrah. Pradhan, who played for Mohun Bagan during the 2017-18 season as a side-back, was found hanging at his residence on P.K. Chowdhury Road early Thursday morning. The Shibpur Botanical Garden Police discovered his body and confirmed the cause of death.

Alongside his football career, Pradhan had been working as a civic volunteer with the Howrah City Police. He was posted in the Telecom Department at the Shibpur Police Lines. Police have not found a suicide note and are treating the case as an unnatural death. No further details have been disclosed regarding the reason for his decision to take his own life.

Pradhan had been a prominent figure on Kolkata’s Maidan, playing for several local clubs. His football career included a stint with Mohun Bagan, where he was regarded as a talented side-back. However, despite his potential, Pradhan’s career did not see major breakthroughs. To support his family, he transitioned to working as a civic volunteer in the police department.

The news of his death has left the football community in shock, with Mohun Bagan Sporting Club expressing their condolences on social media. "The club is deeply saddened by the loss of a talented player and extends heartfelt sympathy to his family," the club posted. The police investigation into the circumstances of his death is ongoing, and family members are being questioned as part of the inquiry.