BJP Functionary Vinay Somaiah Death: Kodagu MLA’s Ponnanna and Mantar Gowda Deny Allegations, Express Grief

Congress MLA A.S. Ponnanna and Mantar Gowda clarified that they had no role in the complaint registered against Vinay.

Madikeri/Virajpet/Bengaluru: The death of a 40-year-old BJP worker from Madikeri, Vinay Somaiah, in Bengaluru on the night of April 3 has triggered political ripples, with Kodagu Congress Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna and Madikeri MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda distanced themselves from the controversy and offered condolences to the bereaved family.

Amid speculation over the FIR and its alleged political motivations, Congress MLA A.S. Ponnanna clarified that he had no role in the complaint registered against Vinay.

Speaking to The Kodagu Express, Ponnanna said, “I have never interacted with Vinay Somaiah nor have I directed anyone to initiate legal proceedings against him. I only became aware of certain derogatory comments made against me on social media after a complaint had already been lodged.”

He added that the matter is currently under judicial scrutiny. “Since the High Court has stayed the proceedings, I have neither interfered nor influenced the police in any way. I strongly feel that politicising this incident and manipulating public sentiment is not in anyone’s interest. Truth has a way of surfacing,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mantar Gowda, expressed deep sorrow at the news of Vinay’s death. Speaking to The Kodagu Express, he expressed shock over being mentioned in the note left by Vinay. “I am pained by the news of Vinay’s passing. My prayers are with his soul, and I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family,” he said.

Responding to the mention of his name in the note, Dr. Gowda said, “It is truly surprising to see my name appear in this context. I had only spoken to Vinay once, back on November 24, regarding a hospital-related matter he had texted me about. I advised him to message me directly on WhatsApp instead of posting in the group, as there were too many messages being shared.”

He reiterated that there was no further interaction beyond that conversation and that he was distressed to see his name dragged into the issue. “Despite the limited nature of our exchange, it is both unexpected and unnecessary for my name to be linked with this tragedy,” he added.

Reaffirming his support for Vinay’s grieving family, Dr. Gowda concluded, “This incident has saddened me deeply. I stand with the family during this difficult time and sincerely hope that the actual facts behind this unfortunate event are brought to light.”

The police investigation is ongoing, and officers are reviewing the contents of the note shared by Vinay to understand the circumstances leading up to his death.

Vinay Somaiah was found lifeless inside a housekeeping services office in Nagawara, where he was employed. The Hennur police confirmed that the body had been sent for a post-mortem to ascertain the exact cause of death.

Prior to his death, Vinay reportedly shared a detailed note on WhatsApp, alleging harassment and claiming he had been falsely implicated in a criminal case. The note suggested that the ordeal began when a politically influenced FIR was lodged against him for a post made by another member in a WhatsApp group where Vinay had recently been made an administrator. He alleged that despite his limited role in the group, he was unfairly held accountable and subjected to humiliation on social media.

He further wrote that personal photographs of him were circulated online without his consent, adding to the distress faced by his family. Even after obtaining bail, Vinay claimed the harassment did not cease — his friends and relatives were questioned, allegedly due to political interference.

Trigger Warning: This article discusses suicide, which may be distressing to some readers. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or mental health issues, please seek help. Reach out to a mental health professional or contact a suicide prevention helpline for support.

Mental Health helpline numbers: Those experiencing distress or contemplating suicide can seek assistance by contacting the Arogya Sahayavani helpline at phone number 104. Sahai helpline (24-hour): 080 65000111, 080 65000222. Here are active helplines throughout India: Click here

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