Karnataka Home Minister Promises Action Following Probe into BJP Worker’s Suicide

Synopsis
Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara assures that actions will follow a police probe into the suicide of BJP worker Vinay Somaiah, who faced allegations linked to Congress MLA A.S. Ponnanna. The investigation will clarify the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
Key Takeaways
- Vinay Somaiah was a BJP worker who died by suicide.
- Allegations involve Congress MLA A.S. Ponnanna.
- The police probe is ongoing, and actions will be determined thereafter.
- Social media narratives are under scrutiny for accuracy.
- A thorough investigation is promised by HM G. Parameshwara.
Bengaluru, April 4 (NationPress) In response to allegations implicating a Congress MLA in the tragic suicide of a BJP party member in Bengaluru, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara announced on Friday that appropriate actions would be initiated following the completion of the police inquiry and the submission of the report.
Vinay Somaiah, a 35-year-old BJP worker, previously arrested for comments concerning Congress MLA A.S. Ponnanna, took his own life on Friday.
Ponnanna, also the Legal Advisor to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, stated, “I have not directed anyone to file a complaint against Vinay Somaiah, nor have I prompted any legal actions.”
Addressing the media in Bengaluru, HM Parameshwara confirmed that a thorough investigation would be conducted and actions would follow based on the findings of the jurisdictional Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP).
He remarked, “Often, the narratives circulated on social media and WhatsApp are misleading. These assertions will be scrutinized, and if verified, accountability will be sought from those involved.”
When questioned about Ponnanna's involvement, HM Parameshwara emphasized that an inquiry would commence as soon as a First Information Report (FIR) is filed. “Anyone found culpable will be subjected to suitable legal repercussions,” he reiterated.
Meanwhile, Ponnanna informed the press that he had not seen the suicide note. He acknowledged that a complaint had indeed been lodged, but it occurred four months prior.
“I have not instructed anyone to file a complaint against Vinay Somaiah or to initiate any legal actions,” he reiterated.
Expressing his condolences, Ponnanna mentioned, “Vinay had reached out to me regarding an issue involving a temple in Madikeri. Both factions had been attacking each other on social media.”
“Vinay had also sent a heartfelt message indicating that I was incapable of getting a post about Goddess Cauvery removed. Can an MLA erase messages from all WhatsApp groups?” he questioned.
On the matter of the FIR, Ponnanna clarified, “Thennira Maheena had the FIR registered through the court. Is that unlawful? It needs to be addressed legally. This incident occurred four months ago. The police did not directly file the case. Additionally, numerous complaints have been lodged against Thennira Maheena as well.”
Vinay Somaiah’s arrest was related to comments made in a WhatsApp group regarding MLA Ponnanna.
Post his release on bail, it has been reported that he struggled with the humiliation and stress from the incident, which allegedly contributed to his decision to end his life.
Vinay reportedly took his life at the BJP party office in HBR Layout. According to the police, Vinay arrived at the office on Thursday night and remained there. He shared a suicide note in a WhatsApp group before hanging himself.