Udupi: A young man who was undergoing treatment at the district hospital in Ajjarkad allegedly died by suicide in the hospital’s toilet on Friday evening. He had been admitted following an alleged assault by the family members of a woman he had been in a relationship with.
The deceased has been identified as Pradeep Poojari, an activist associated with the Naikarkodi unit of the Hindu Jagarana Vedike.
According to reports, Pradeep had been in a relationship with the woman for nearly seven years. However, she had reportedly decided to end the relationship.
Earlier case registered over alleged harassment
In 2025, a case was registered against Pradeep at the Women’s Police Station after he allegedly confronted the woman and created a disturbance. He was arrested in connection with the case and was later released on bail.
The matter reportedly resurfaced on October 27, when Pradeep allegedly went to the woman’s residence and created another disturbance. During the incident, members of the woman’s family allegedly assaulted him.
Following the incident, a complaint was reportedly filed at the Women’s Police Station. Pradeep had also lodged a complaint at the Hiriyadka Police Station in connection with the alleged assault.
Dies while undergoing treatment
Pradeep had sustained serious injuries in the alleged assault and was admitted to the district hospital in Ajjarkad, Udupi, where he was receiving treatment.
However, on Friday evening, he was found dead in the hospital toilet. The incident came as a shock to those who had been following the developments surrounding the dispute.
The circumstances leading to his death are being investigated by the police.
Protest outside Udupi Town Police Station
Following news of Pradeep’s death, activists belonging to Hindu organisations and local residents gathered outside the Udupi Town Police Station.
They demanded strict action against those allegedly responsible for the circumstances that led to his death.
A case has been registered at the Udupi Town Police Station, and further investigation is under way.
Police are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the complaints filed by both sides. The allegations of assault and the events preceding the death remain subject to investigation.