Bengaluru: A man convicted of murdering his two wives and infant daughter has been released from Bengaluru’s Central Prison after serving 37 years, expressing deep remorse and urging others not to make the same mistake that he said cost him everything.

Saibanna Ningappa Natikar, a native of Kalaburagi district, was among 24 prisoners released under a Karnataka government initiative that grants remission to eligible inmates based on good conduct.

Speaking to reporters after his release, Natikar reflected on the consequences of his actions.

“No one should make the mistake I made. After going to jail, we lose a lot in life—our people, our job, our property. I lost my job, 10 acres of land, and my entire family because of one mistake made in anger. I have spent 37 years in jail,” he said.

Convicted in two murder cases

According to prison officials, Natikar was employed with the Karnataka State Co-operative Marketing Federation before his arrest.

He was first convicted of murdering his first wife after allegedly suspecting her of having an extramarital relationship. He was later released on bail.

Following persuasion from family members, he remarried. However, he later alleged that his second wife was involved with another man. After an earlier separation, he was granted parole while serving his sentence.

Police said that during parole, he allegedly attacked his second wife and their infant daughter with a knife after finding his wife with another man. Both died from their injuries. Natikar also allegedly attempted to take his own life but survived and was returned to prison after treatment.

Released for good conduct

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge personally handed over the release orders during a visit to Parappana Agrahara Central Prison.

The minister said the remission was granted after considering the inmates’ conduct in prison.

“Based on their good conduct, 24 people have been released. They are now returning to the mainstream of society. Those who committed crimes have been given an opportunity for reform,” Kharge said.

During his visit, the minister also reviewed prison infrastructure and met inmates to understand issues within the facility. He said suggestions had been sought from prisoners and steps would be taken to address shortcomings in the prison system.