Man attempts suicide in front of Davanagere SP’s office over cheating by relatives, bank officials

DAVANAGERE: A man attempted to commit suicide by consuming poison in front of the Police Superintendent’s office here on Tuesday, alleging that his relatives and bank officials had cheated him and farmers of crores of rupees.

The victim, identified as Shivalingaiah, a resident of Gadiguddal village in Harappanahalli taluk, was running a fertilizer shop and buying maize and ragi from farmers. Due to illness, he entrusted the shop’s management to his relatives, who allegedly cheated him and the farmers of Rs 5.55 crore by forging his signature and siphoning off funds.

A case was registered in 2022 at the KJT Nagar police station in Davanagere, and the then-SP C B Rishyant led the investigation, recovering Rs 2.68 crore from the accused and returning it to the farmers. However, Shivalingaiah alleged that the accused still owes Rs 5.75 crore, and despite his repeated pleas to the authorities, justice has not been served.

Feeling helpless, Shivalingaiah attempted to commit suicide by consuming poison in front of the SP’s office, recording a selfie video and posting it on WhatsApp. He has been hospitalised and is fighting for his life.

Shivalingaiah’s family members are now demanding justice, alleging that the police have not taken adequate action to recover the remaining amount from the accused. The farmers who sold their produce to Shivalingaiah are also demanding their money back, and the situation has become critical.

The family members have appealed to the higher authorities, including the Police Commissioner, to intervene and ensure justice is served. They have also sought permission to stage a protest, which has been denied by the police.