A Village Defence Guard (VDC) member in Udampur district of Jammu region shot himself dead with his service rifle on Saturday evening.

An official said that a 50-year-old VDC member identified as Babu Ram, son of Dina Nath from Dudu village, Tehsil Latti, reportedly committed suicide at his home.

He was taken to a nearby hospital by his family, but was pronounced dead on arrival by doctors the official further added.

Meanwhile, A case has been registered and investigation under relevant sections of the law has been initiated, according to a police officer.