A tragic double death shook a village in Karnataka on Tuesday when a 21-year-old man, Mehboob, reportedly ended his life fearing arrest in a caste-related complaint, and his father Syed Ali Mullasab (50) died shortly after from a heart attack upon learning of his son’s death.
According to police reports, Mehboob had a dispute with a Dalit family a week ago over a pathway to his farm. During the argument, community members allegedly warned him that they would file a caste-based complaint against him under the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Distressed over the possible legal consequences, Mehboob is believed to have taken his own life by hanging himself from a tree on his farm. His body was discovered later that day. The shock proved too much for his father, Syed Ali, who collapsed and died from a heart attack soon after receiving the news.
Vadagera Sub-Inspector Mehboob Ali confirmed that a case has been registered against eight individuals in connection with the events that preceded the suicide. One person, Eshappa Naikal, has been taken into custody, and further investigation is underway.
This incident has sparked concern over the misuse of legal provisions, mental health awareness, and the need for timely conflict resolution in rural areas.