Daijiworld Media Network - Haveri
Haveri, Apr 20: Tensions flared in Karnataka’s Haveri district after a Dalit college student allegedly died by suicide following relentless harassment by a man from a minority community. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, has drawn sharp political reactions and demands for swift action.
The deceased, identified as Shilpa (22) from Chikkamallur in Shiggaon taluk, was a BCA student in Belagavi. According to police, the accused, Ramzan Nadaf, a furniture shop owner, had allegedly obtained Shilpa’s phone number and harassed her over calls, leading to her tragic death.
Former Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai reacted strongly to the incident, saying, “The truth behind the suicide of Dalit student Shilpa has now come out. She was harassed by a person from another community.” He further warned that there could be attempts to cover up the case and demanded the immediate arrest of the accused. “It is extremely painful that a girl with dreams of higher education ended her life like this. The state government must provide Rs 25 lac in compensation to her family,” Bommai urged.
According to investigators, Shilpa was in a relationship with Naveen, an employee at Nadaf’s shop. Following an allegation of theft against Naveen, Nadaf reportedly took possession of his phone, accessed personal messages, and began contacting Shilpa. He allegedly blackmailed her, accusing her of receiving stolen money and threatened to expose her relationship.
A case has been registered at Belagavi Market Police Station and a probe is underway. Meanwhile, Sriram Sene founder Pramod Muthalik also demanded Nadaf’s arrest. He alleged that the accused had assaulted Naveen and withheld his salary, forcing him to take items from the shop to buy medicines for his sick mother.
“This is not just a suicide it’s a case of mental torture. Nadaf should be arrested and booked without delay,” Muthalik asserted.
The case has sparked anger among Dalit and right-wing groups, with calls for justice intensifying across the state.