A retired tea worker was found dead with a deep gash on his throat at a tea estate in Madarihat block of Alipurduar on Tuesday night.

Police suspect murder.

Sources said that Etwa Meher, 71, a former worker of Dhumchipara tea estate, didn’t return to the workers’ quarter on Tuesday night. As his son Deepak went in search of him, he found Etwa lying in his under-construction house.

He informed the police who reached the spot. Sources said the police saw the deep cut in the deceased's throat and recovered a knife from the spot.

According to police sources, Etwa’s son claimed his father committed suicide.

Residents, however, said there was no reason for Etwa to take such a drastic step. “Etwa had received his post-retirement benefits, including provident fund and gratuity, and even started building his house,” said a resident.

The police are making inquiries. “Although we suspect murder, we can confirm it before the autopsy report,” said an officer.