Mamata Banerjee’s niece, who lost job post teacher-recrutiment probe, dies by suicide in Birbhum - Telegraph India

**Mamata Banerjee’s niece, Bristy Mukherjee, found dead in Birbhum; police treat death as suicide**

*Birbhum, West Bengal –* The body of Bristy Mukherjee, a 32‑year‑old relative of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, was discovered early on Friday at a family residence in the district’s Suri‑Sainthia area. Local police said preliminary examinations point to self‑inflicted injury, and a formal suicide note has not yet been disclosed. The investigation, led by the Birbhum Superintendent of Police, has been registered as a “suspicious death” pending a forensic autopsy, and officers have begun questioning neighbours and household staff, according to statements reported by *The Hindu* and *The Indian Express*.

Mukherjee’s death comes just weeks after she was removed from a teaching post she had secured through the state’s controversial teacher‑recruitment process. The recruitment drive, overseen by the West Bengal School Service Commission, has been under scrutiny for alleged irregularities, prompting a probe by the state’s Directorate of Enforcement. Media reports, including those from *Telegraph India* and *NDTV*, indicate that Mukherjee’s appointment was rescinded after the probe flagged procedural lapses, leaving her without the anticipated employment and reportedly causing severe distress.

Political observers note that the tragedy has sparked a wave of condolences across party lines, with the Trinamool Congress issuing a brief statement expressing “deep sorrow” and urging a swift, transparent inquiry. Opposition leaders, while refraining from direct criticism of the chief minister’s family, called for an impartial investigation to rule out any undue pressure. The Birbhum police have confirmed that they will submit a detailed report to the district magistrate within the next 48 hours, and the case is expected to be monitored closely by the state’s higher authorities.