Relatives and villagers protested outside mortuary at the Mysore Medical College and Research Institute on Tuesday, demanding justice following tragic suicide of three family members in Kempayyanahundi village. The deceased,identified as Shivanna, 54,his wife Nagarathna, 44, and their daughter Rakshita,22, were discovered dead in their home on Monday after allegedly consuming poison. A death note indicated that they held Ullas Gowda, a local resident,responsible for their actions.
The police arrested Gowda, who was reportedly attempting to flee to Bengaluru. He had been in a relationship with Rakshita but opposed her engagement to another man . Allegations surfaced that he sent photographs of himself with Rakshita to groom-to-be,exacerbating tensions within family. This incident has deeply affected community, prompting the protestors to demand severe repercussions for Gowda .
On Monday, villagers had refused to allow the bodies to be moved for post-mortem examinations,insisting on justice for the grieving family . Their demands included the confiscation of Gowda's property, which they want transferred to the relatives of the deceased. Former Ministers S. R. Mahesh of the Janata Dal and C. Puttarangashetty from the Congress visited the mortuary to offer condolences and support to the family .
The protestors also called for a visit from Urban Development Minister Yathindra Siddaramaiah,as the village falls within Varuna Assembly constituency represented by former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Both Mahesh and Puttarangashetty assured the family that they would seek justice in this heartbreaking case .
After post-mortem was completed,police escorted bodies back to the village in an ambulance. Community members continue to grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy,highlighting the urgent need for mental health support. Those experiencing suicidal thoughts are encouraged to reach out to the Arogya Sahayavani helpline at 104 for assistance.
