Shivamogga widow’s suicide sparks outrage; family accuses constable of harassment

Shivamogga: The alleged suicide of a young widow in Siddapura village of Bhadravathi taluk has triggered outrage after a WhatsApp message purportedly written by her named a serving police constable and accused him of harassment and defamation.

Swathi, who lost her husband Jagadish to illness barely a week ago, was found hanging at her residence. The incident occurred within the limits of the New Town Police Station in Shivamogga district. The tragic death has left her two minor daughters orphaned within days of losing their father.

According to the family, Swathi had been married for seven years and was struggling to cope with her husband’s sudden demise. They allege that during this vulnerable period, Mohan, a constable attached to the Thirthahalli Police Station, began contacting her through Facebook messages.

Relatives claim that Swathi blocked his account, following which he allegedly used another account to circulate defamatory statements about her. “She was deeply disturbed after learning that false rumours were being spread in the village. She felt humiliated and mentally harassed,” a family member said.

Before taking the extreme step, Swathi reportedly sent a WhatsApp message to her mother, stating that she could no longer bear the humiliation. In the message, she allegedly wrote that Mohan had spoken ill about her to others and urged her family not to spare him. She also made an emotional appeal to her mother to take care of her daughters.

The grieving parents have demanded immediate suspension and strict legal action against the constable, alleging that sustained harassment led their daughter to suicide. The incident has sparked anger among villagers, who gathered outside the house demanding justice.

Police officials said an investigation has been initiated. The authenticity of the WhatsApp message is being examined, and statements from family members and locals are being recorded. Authorities are also verifying social media activity and digital evidence as part of the probe.

Officials stated that appropriate legal sections, including those related to abetment of suicide, would be invoked if evidence supports the allegations. The case has once again raised concerns over misuse of social media, online harassment, and the vulnerability of women facing personal crises.

Further investigation is underway.