Bengaluru: A 56-year-old woman allegedly died by suicide after claiming she was subjected to prolonged harassment following a failed ₹4 crore real estate investment in Devanahalli. Police have arrested one person and launched an investigation into the case.
The deceased, Nagarathnamma, a resident of Kannamangala village, was found dead on August 4. According to a complaint filed by her daughter-in-law, Pooja KS, the family discovered she was missing early that morning before locating her body near their residence.
Family alleges harassment over failed investment
According to the complaint, Nagarathnamma invested in a real estate venture in June 2023 after being introduced to businessman Deepak Kumar by acquaintances Shivakumari and her husband Sridhar.
The family alleged that Nagarathnamma not only invested her own money but also persuaded relatives and friends to invest, with the total investment amounting to around ₹4 crore, including ₹1 crore through bank transfers and ₹3 crore in cash.
When the promised returns failed to materialise, she reportedly approached the police in March 2025. Although Deepak allegedly assured authorities that the money would be repaid, the family claimed the payments never came through and cheques issued by him were dishonoured.
Suicide note and voice message under investigation
The complaint further alleges that relatives and investors began demanding repayment, leading to repeated harassment, threats and humiliation.
Before her death, Nagarathnamma reportedly left a suicide note and a WhatsApp voice message naming six individuals—Deepak Kumar, Shivakumari, Sridhar, Kavita, Subrahmanya and Bhagya Chandrashekhar—whom she accused of driving her to take the extreme step.
The family also alleged that false criminal complaints were filed against Nagarathnamma and her husband, worsening their distress.
One arrested, probe continues
Police have registered a case at the Devanahalli Police Station under Section 108 (abetment of suicide) and other relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita based on Pooja’s complaint.
Investigators have arrested Deepak Kumar (34). Police said he had previously been arrested in other cheating cases registered by the Halasur, Bagalur and Madiwala police stations.
Further investigation is underway to determine the role of the remaining accused and verify the allegations made by the family.
If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, help is available. In India, you can contact Tele-MANAS by dialling 14416 or 1-800-891-4416 for free, confidential support.