Karnataka Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge on Saturday, December 28, denied allegations linking him to the suicide of a contractor and called for an independent and impartial investigation into the matter. The allegations, raised by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), have led to demands for Kharge’s resignation.
The contractor, 26-year-old Sachin, died by suicide on December 26 in the Kalaburagi district. In a seven-page suicide note, Sachin reportedly alleged harassment and extortion by Raju Kapnoor, a close associate of Kharge and a former member of the Kalaburagi City Corporation. The note also mentions other Congress leaders, accusing them of demanding bribes and issuing threats.
Speaking to the media at his Bengaluru residence, Kharge said, "There are two versions for the suicide. While the contractor is suggesting one thing, the accused have also brought out another aspect of the entire incident." He said that there is a need for a thorough investigation, adding, "Let there be a free and fair probe. I myself have requested the Home Minister to constitute an independent authority within the Home Department to investigate the matter."
Kharge dismissed the BJP’s demands for his resignation and arrest, accusing the party of political opportunism. “Am I an accused? Does the BJP even understand the law of the land? On what grounds are they calling for my arrest?” he asked. He claimed the BJP was attempting to politicize the tragedy to divert attention from its own issues, adding that this was just another baseless attempt to tarnish his reputation.
The BJP, however, has escalated its criticism of the Congress-led government, branding it a “government of killers” following the contractor’s suicide. BJP leader Chalavadi Narayanaswamy accused Kharge of abusing his power and called for his immediate resignation. He also alleged that the Kharge family operates a “republic” in their stronghold of Kalaburagi.
Kharge strongly refuted the allegations, asserting that neither he, his department, nor the government had any role in the incident. He mentioned that he had spoken to the concerned minister, who is currently out of town, and would further address the issue upon their return.
According to the note, the deceased contractor identified as Sachin paid Rs 15 lakh bribe to former Kalaburagi City Corporation member Raju Kapnoor and several Congress leaders in hopes of getting a tender. The note states that Sachin was pressurised and issued death threats to give Rs one crore more.
Apart from Kapnoor, the suicide note names several others, including Nandkumar Nagabhujange, Gorakhnath Sajjan, Pratap Dheer Patil (Pappu Patil), Manoj Sejwal, Vikas HM, Vinay TP, Ramanagowda Patil, and Satish Ratnakar.
If you are aware of anyone facing mental health issues or feeling suicidal, please provide help. Here are some helpline numbers of suicide-prevention organisations that can offer emotional support to individuals and families.
Tamil Nadu
State health department's suicide helpline: 104
Sneha Suicide Prevention Centre - 044-24640050 (listed as the sole suicide prevention helpline in Tamil Nadu)
Andhra Pradesh
Life Suicide Prevention: 78930 78930
Roshni: 9166202000, 9127848584
Karnataka
Sahai (24-hour): 080 65000111, 080 65000222
Kerala
Maithri: 0484 2540530
Chaithram: 0484 2361161
Both are 24-hour helpline numbers.
Telangana
State government's suicide prevention (tollfree): 104
Roshni: 040 66202000, 6620200
SEVA: 09441778290, 040 27504682 (between 9 am and 7 pm
Aasara offers support to individuals and families during an emotional crisis, for those dealing with mental health issues and suicidal ideation, and to those undergoing trauma after the suicide of a loved one.
24x7 Helpline: 9820466726
Click here for working helplines across India.