Sonepur, Jan 21: In a shocking incident, Rajesh Mishra, a Youth Congress leader from Sonepur, allegedly shot himself dead at his residence in Bhagabati Nagar in Subarnapur town on Tuesday night.

According to preliminary information, Mishra is believed to have taken his own life with his licensed revolver, shooting himself in the head around 12 am. The sound of the gunshot alerted his family members and neighbours, who immediately informed the police.

While the exact motive behind the suicide remains unclear, authorities have launched an investigation into the matter. Police have sent Mishra's body for a post-mortem examination to determine the precise cause of death. A forensic team from Bolangir is expected to visit the scene for a deeper probe.

Mishra, who was known for his friendly nature, had recently been appointed Congress treasurer and had held various positions within the district Congress committee. His sudden death has left the local Congress party and the town in deep mourning.