Chitradurga: In a tragic incident in Hale Rangapura village, Chitradurga taluk, a 5-year-old boy named Manjunath reportedly lost his life after his father, Tippesh, allegedly beat him for crying out of hunger. Tippesh, reportedly under the influence of alcohol, lashed out at his son when the boy, who had not eaten since midday, began asking for food.
The boy’s mother, Gauri, tried to intervene, pleading with Tippesh not to harm the child. Despite her efforts, Manjunath collapsed and lost consciousness after being hit. Neighbours observed bruises on the child, confirming signs of assault, and rushed him to a nearby hospital in Chitradurga, where he was sadly declared dead.
Reports suggest that Tippesh had spent the monetary aid given under the state’s Annabhagya Yojana, intended for essential food supplies, on alcohol instead. The Annabhagya Yojana, launched by the Karnataka government, provides 10 kg of rice per family monthly to combat hunger. Currently, families receive only 5 kg of rice along with a cash transfer for the remaining amount. Critics argue this cash transfer can be misused, as seen in this tragic case.
Gauri has since lodged a formal complaint with the Bharamasagar police, accusing her husband of murdering their son. Neighbours have also alleged that Tippesh has a history of family neglect, often prioritizing alcohol and, under the influence of his mother, Shettamma, failing to provide for his household.
The incident has sparked outrage across Karnataka, with many questioning the Annabhagya Yojana’s impact on hunger relief. Locals are now urging the government to reassess the scheme’s cash transfer method, as this case underscores the risk of misuse and raises concerns over its role in creating a hunger-free Karnataka.