Bengaluru: High drama unfolded outside Vidhana Soudha on Saturday after a 38-year-old doctor allegedly consumed poison in public, claiming harassment by the police during the course of an investigation. The incident triggered panic among passers-by and prompted swift action by police personnel stationed at the seat of Karnataka’s legislature.
The doctor, identified as Dr Nagendrappa Shirur, was immediately rushed to Bowring and Lady Curzon Hospital after alert police officers noticed him consuming poison and intervened in time by snatching the bottle from his hand. Hospital authorities later confirmed that his condition is stable and that he is out of danger, though he continues to remain under medical supervision.
Incident triggers tense moments near legislature
The incident occurred in full public view at the Vidhana Soudha premises, a high-security zone that routinely sees heavy police deployment. Eyewitnesses said Dr Nagendrappa arrived at the location appearing visibly distressed before allegedly consuming poison.
Police personnel on duty acted promptly, preventing further harm and ensuring he received immediate medical attention. The swift response helped avert a potential tragedy in a sensitive area that also attracts tourists and officials throughout the day.
Background of arrest and protest case
According to police sources, Dr Nagendrappa was earlier arrested by the Anekal police in connection with a protest following the detention of Puneeth Kerehalli over alleged issues related to illegal immigrants. Both Dr Nagendrappa and Kerehalli were named in a case registered in connection with a demonstration held outside the Anekal police station.
The protest reportedly led to heightened tensions, after which police initiated an investigation. Dr Nagendrappa was subsequently taken into custody as part of the probe, following which he alleged that he was subjected to sustained questioning.
Allegations of police harassment
In his statement, Dr Nagendrappa alleged that he faced harassment and intense mental pressure during police questioning. He claimed that the treatment meted out to him during the investigation caused severe emotional distress, ultimately pushing him to take the extreme step in front of the legislature.
Police officials, however, said the matter is being examined and that all procedures followed during the investigation were in accordance with the law. Senior officers stated that the allegations would be looked into as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Medical condition and treatment
Hospital sources at Bowring and Lady Curzon Hospital confirmed that Dr Nagendrappa was brought in as an emergency case and was promptly treated. Doctors said that timely medical intervention ensured that his condition did not deteriorate further.
“He is out of danger and is undergoing treatment under medical supervision,” a hospital official said, adding that he would continue to be monitored for both physical and psychological well-being.
Association with activist Puneeth Kerehalli
Police sources noted that Dr Nagendrappa was known to be associated with right-wing activist Puneeth Kerehalli. This association has been cited as part of the background in the protest-related case registered earlier at the Anekal police station.
Investigators are examining whether the alleged harassment claim has any direct link to the earlier protest case and whether proper safeguards were followed during questioning.
Case registered, investigation underway
Following Saturday’s incident, the Vidhana Soudha police have registered a separate case to probe the circumstances that led Dr Nagendrappa to allegedly attempt to take his life. Officials said statements from witnesses, police personnel present at the scene, and hospital staff will be recorded as part of the investigation.
Authorities have also indicated that CCTV footage from the Vidhana Soudha premises will be reviewed to establish a clear sequence of events leading up to the incident.
Conclusion
The incident has raised serious questions about mental health, custodial procedures and the handling of individuals under investigation. While the police have denied any wrongdoing at this stage, the case has drawn attention to the need for sensitivity during questioning and the importance of safeguarding the mental well-being of those involved in legal proceedings.
As investigations continue, officials said appropriate action will be taken based on the findings, even as Dr Nagendrappa remains under medical care and observation.
Doctor consumes poison outside Vidhana Soudha, alleges police harassment
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