Vinay Somaiah, a 40-year-old functionary of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), was found dead in his office in Bengaluru's Nagawara area on Thursday, April 3. A social media post reportedly written by Kodagu-native Vinay accused Congress MLA AS Ponnanna of abetting his suicide by harassing him and filing a false complaint against him.
The post alleged that Vinay’s “ordeal began” after a politically motivated first information report (FIR) was filed against him over a message posted in a WhatsApp group. His post added that he had been made admin of the group just five days earlier. The message, according to reports, was critical of MLA Ponnanna and had been posted by another group member.
Based on a complaint filed by Congress worker Tennera Maina, the Madikeri police registered an FIR against Vinay and two others on February 5. He was arrested and later released on bail.
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara told the media, "The police will investigate and take necessary action."
BJP state president BY Vijayendra expressed his condolences and called for a fair and impartial investigation. He urged the Congress-led Karnataka government to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
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.
Kerala
Maithri: 0484 2540530
Chaithram: 0484 2361161
Both are 24-hour helpline numbers.
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
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.
