Mandya Erupts in Anger After Toddler Dies During Police Check

Mandya, Karnataka: A wave of unrest swept through Mandya on Monday following the tragic death of a three-year-old girl, leading to strong protests against local traffic police.

The deceased child, Hrithiksha, was the daughter of Ashok and Vanishri from Goravanahalli in Maddur taluk. According to eyewitnesses, the couple was rushing their daughter to receive treatment for a dog bite when their two-wheeler was stopped by traffic personnel.

Protesters claimed that the police forcibly grabbed the motorcycle’s handle during a vehicle inspection, which caused the bike to topple, throwing all three riders to the ground. The young girl sustained grave injuries in the fall. Bystanders immediately transported her to the Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences (MIMS) in an autorickshaw. However, doctors declared her brought dead.

In response, angry locals, joined by activist groups, placed the child’s body outside the hospital in protest. They blocked the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway and shouted slogans condemning the alleged recklessness of the traffic police.

Reacting swiftly, SP Mallikarjuna Baladandi visited the scene and announced the suspension of three Assistant Sub-Inspectors — Nagaraju, Jayaramu, and Gurudeva. He urged the family to file an official complaint and promised appropriate compensation.

Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy expressed sorrow on X, criticizing traffic enforcement practices that instill fear. District Minister N Chaluvarayaswamy also extended condolences and assured action.

The incident has renewed calls for more humane policing practices.

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