Teen hotel worker found hanging in Pelling, Police initiate investigation

A 19-year-old woman was found hanging from the window of her hotel room in Pelling. The incident occurred at Hotel Palri, located in the Akahrot area of Pelling under Gyalshing district.

The discovery was made around 6:45 PM on June 4 when Sonam Ongdi Bhutia, a 23-year-old resident of Gangtok currently staying at the hotel, noticed something unusual. According to the written report submitted by Bhutia, he had gone to the kitchen of the hotel and found the entire premises in darkness. When he called out for the victim, Suniya Oraon, a 19-year-old from Uttar Basti, Malbazar in West Bengal, there was no response.

Bhutia reported that upon switching on the lights and approaching her room, he was shocked to find Suniya hanging from the window. She was employed at the hotel at the time of the incident. Local police were immediately informed and the body was secured by authorities.

Due to the absence of the deceased's family or legal guardian, the inquest proceedings could not be completed immediately. However, police have confirmed that the inquest will be carried out as soon as a family representative arrives.

The Gyalshing Police have registered an Unnatural Death FIR (No. 14/2025) under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS) 2023. As of now, the case remains under active investigation and law enforcement officials have not ruled out any possibilities, including suicide or foul play.

To support mental health awareness and suicide prevention, all media houses are now mandated to include Suicide Prevention Helpline numbers in their reports. The helpline numbers to be published are:

Toll-Free (24x7): 1800-345-3225

Landline: 03592-202111