Mangaluru: A 32-year-old man from Mangaluru district has died by suicide while working in Oman, leaving his family in deep shock and grief. The deceased has been identified as Puneeth Poojary, a resident of Someshwar in Dakshina Kannada district.
According to family sources, Puneeth had been employed at a lift company in Oman for the past one-and-a-half years. Like many youths from coastal Karnataka, he had travelled abroad seeking better employment opportunities to support his family.
He had returned to his hometown around one-and-a-half months ago to spend time with his family before resuming work in Oman. His sudden death has come as a devastating blow to his parents and relatives.
Alleged relationship issues
Sources close to the family said that personal issues may have led to the tragic incident. Puneeth was reportedly in a relationship with a young woman from Urva for the past four years.
It is learnt that he had shared photographs with her on his social media accounts, and several close friends and relatives were aware of the relationship. However, it is alleged that differences had cropped up between them in recent days.
Family members stated that for the past few days, the woman had allegedly stopped answering his phone calls and was not responding to his messages. This reportedly caused him significant emotional distress.
Though officials have not confirmed the exact cause, it is believed that the breakdown of communication and the strain in the relationship may have deeply affected him, eventually leading him to take the extreme step while abroad.
Family devastated
Puneeth was the son of Chandra and Deepa, residents of Someshwar. The news of his death reached the family recently, plunging the household into mourning.
Relatives and neighbours gathered at the family residence to offer condolences and support to the bereaved parents. Those who knew him described him as a quiet and hardworking individual who had gone overseas with hopes of building a stable future.
The family is now awaiting further official communication regarding the repatriation of his mortal remains from Oman. Local community members and well-wishers are said to be extending assistance to the grieving family during this difficult time.
Concerns over emotional stress among expatriates
The incident has once again drawn attention to the emotional and psychological stress faced by young people working far away from home. Separation from family, cultural isolation and personal issues can sometimes intensify feelings of loneliness and despair.
Experts have repeatedly emphasised the importance of mental health awareness and open communication, particularly among expatriate workers who may not have immediate access to family support systems.
Authorities are yet to release detailed information regarding the circumstances of the death. Further formalities are expected to be completed in coordination with Indian officials and authorities in Oman.
Conclusion
Puneeth Poojary’s untimely death has left his family and the local community in mourning. As they grapple with the loss, the tragedy underscores the need for greater emotional support systems for young professionals working abroad and for timely intervention when individuals show signs of distress.
