New Delhi, March 1 (IANS): A 52-year-old clerical staff member in the Cabinet Secretariat Saturday hanged himself after killing his wife and two children at his home here, police said.

Ananya Chakravarty was found hanging from a ceiling fan while his 43-year-old wife Jaisree, 17-year-old son Arnab, and 12-year-old daughter Disha were found lying in a pool of blood inside their home at Sadiq Nagar area of south Delhi, police said.

A relative Saturday evening found the house, located on the second floor, bolted from inside. He informed their neighbours and also called police.

"They were last seen Friday afternoon. The relative called them several times on their mobile phones today (Saturday) morning but failed to get any response," said a police officer.

With the help of policemen, the lock on the door was broken and the bodies were found.

"The reason for the extreme step is yet to be ascertained. It seemed Chakravarty first killed his wife and children and then hanged himself," the officer said.

He also said the incident might have taken place Friday evening. Police said a hammer was found in the room.

Chakravarty, who hailed from West Bengal, was staying there for the past several years. His wife was a teacher in a government junior school.

A neighbour said the family was very friendly.