Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal
Bantwal, Mar 9: The case of a missing minor boy from Farangipete, which had puzzled many and raised several questions, has finally come to a close. Diganth, who had been untraceable for several days, has now been found.
Diganth comes from a joint family and is known to be an intelligent student with good academic performance. However, sources indicate that his parents did not pay much attention to him due to the joint family setup. Over time, he lost interest in studies and became reclusive.
It is reported that he had recently become addicted to his mobile phone, leading to scoldings from his parents. Mentally distressed, he left home, seeking solace elsewhere.
Diganth was last seen near a railway track, where he reportedly injured his foot. Unable to walk properly, he left his slippers behind and continued barefoot. When locals discovered a blood-stained slipper, suspicions arose regarding his disappearance. The incident triggered protests from Hindu organizations, which pressured the police to intensify the search.
Meanwhile, Diganth had wandered onto the national highway, where he hitched a ride on a passing bike to Mangaluru’s State Bank area. Confused about what to do next, he boarded a bus to Shivamogga and later traveled to Mysuru. Carrying some money from home, he bought clothes and roamed around the city before taking a train to Bengaluru. Upon reaching Kengeri, he survived on minimal food and spent time near the riverbank.
When his money ran out, Diganth approached a resort in Bengaluru seeking work. He worked there for two days and earned Rs 500, which he used to travel back to Mysuru and later to Udupi by train. While on the train, he saw police searching for him at the location where he had gone missing.
Upon reaching Udupi, he used the remaining change to buy biscuits and water to sustain himself. Eventually, he ran out of money and grew desperate. With his clothes worn out, including the ones he had purchased in Mysuru, he decided to buy new ones from a supermarket in Udupi. However, when he realized he had no money to pay, he attempted to flee but was caught by the store staff.
A vigilant employee at the store, who had heard about Diganth’s disappearance from Bantwal, grew suspicious and contacted his family. His relatives then informed the Bantwal police, who, in coordination with Udupi police, took Diganth into custody.
Following his rescue, a police team led by sub-inspector Nandakumar rushed to Udupi and brought him back to Mangaluru. Superintendent of police Yatish spoke with the boy, arranged food for him, and initiated legal procedures. He has now been sent to the Bondel children's home.
Diganth, a bright student, reportedly felt neglected by his family and had lost interest in studies. His mobile addiction worsened the situation, leading to his decision to leave home. After several days of relentless efforts by the Dakshina Kannada police, the case has finally been resolved.