BJP Functionary Vinay Somaiah Found Dead in Bengaluru; Suicide Note Accuses Kodagu Congress MLA's

Prior to his death, Vinay had posted a message on social media alleging harassment by Congress leaders.

Bengaluru/Madikeri/Virajpet: Vinay Somaiah, a 35-year-old Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker hailing from Kodagu, was discovered dead at his office in Bengaluru’s Nagawara locality on Thursday. Police suspect it to be a case of suicide, as he was found hanging inside the premises.

Prior to his death, Vinay had posted a message on social media alleging harassment by Congress leaders, notably naming Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna and Madikeri MLA Mantar Gowda. The post claimed that an FIR filed against him by a Congress functionary had pushed him to take this extreme step.

Two months ago, Somaiah had been arrested following a complaint lodged by Congress worker Thineera Maina. The FIR, registered by the Madikeri police, accused him and two others of sharing a derogatory message about MLA Ponnanna in a WhatsApp group. Vinay, who was the group's administrator, was booked under relevant charges and later released on bail.

Responding to the incident, Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara stated that a thorough investigation is underway. “The police will look into all aspects. If any wrongdoing is found, strict action will be taken,” he told ANI.

BJP Protest in Kodagu:

Vinay’s death has sparked political outrage, especially from BJP leaders and supporters in Kodagu. Mysuru-Kodagu Member of Parliament Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar expressed grief over the loss and called for justice. “If the allegations in Vinay's final note are true, then the harassment of our party workers is highly condemnable. The pattern of targeting those questioning the lack of development in Kodagu is disturbing,” Wadiyar said, affirming his solidarity with BJP workers in the region.

Protest by BJP workers in Madikeri

In Madikeri, BJP leaders and supporters gathered at General Thimmaiah Circle to stage a protest against the Congress government. They raised slogans accusing the ruling party of misusing power to suppress opposition voices. Protestors alleged a systematic targeting of BJP workers since the Congress assumed office, citing politically motivated police complaints.

The protest, led by former MLA K.G. Bopaiah, BJP district president Ravikalappa, and other senior leaders, demanded immediate action against those allegedly responsible for Vinay's death. The party has specifically called for the arrest of two Congress MLAs from Kodagu and Thineera Maina.

As police begin their probe, the political temperature in Kodagu continues to rise, with the BJP intensifying its call for accountability and justice.

Ponnanna denies involvement in FIR against Vinay Somaiah

In a statement, A.S. Ponnanna said he had no contact whatsoever with Vinay Somaiah.

"I have never even spoken to him, nor did I instruct anyone to file a complaint against him. I only came to know later that derogatory comments had been made about me on social media and that a police complaint had been filed. Since the High Court has issued a stay order in this matter, there is no question of me exerting any pressure on the police.

“The complaint was lodged by Congress leader Maina, based on personal defamation and character assassination on social media. In fact, an FIR has also been registered against Thineera Maina. He is responding through legal channels. If someone is defamed on social media, filing a police complaint should not be seen as wrong," said Ponnanna.

"Politicising this issue and provoking public sentiment is not a healthy development. The truth will always come out," he added.

MLA Mantar Gowda expresses shock over mention of his name:

Madikeri MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda has expressed shock and sorrow following the death of BJP worker Vinay Somaiah, who was found dead in his office in Bengaluru. In a statement issued on Thursday, the legislator said he was surprised that his name appeared in the death note reportedly left behind by Vinay.

“Vinay's death has caused sorrow. I pray for the departed soul to rest in peace,” Dr. Gowda said.

Responding to the mention of his name in the note, he stated, “It is surprising that my name has appeared in Vinay’s death note. I had spoken to Vinay over the phone on November 24. He had messaged me regarding a hospital-related issue.”

Recounting the interaction, the MLA said that he had simply advised Vinay to contact him directly on WhatsApp rather than posting in the group, due to the volume of messages being shared there. “Beyond that, there was no further conversation between us,” he clarified.

Despite the limited interaction, Dr. Gowda said he was disturbed to see his name associated with the incident. “Even so, it is surprising and unnecessary that my name is being mentioned in this matter,” he said.

Offering condolences to Vinay’s family, he added, “Vinay’s death has saddened me as well. I offer my condolences to his family and assure them of my full support. I pray that the truth behind this incident comes out.”

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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