A college student in Dharwad has allegedly died by suicide following reported harassment by police during a recent anti-drug drive in the city. The deceased has been identified as Aditya Myageri, a BSc student at Kittel College and a native of Belur village in Badami taluk, Bagalkot district.
Family alleges harassment despite negative test
According to Aditya's family, he was subjected to harassment even after testing negative for ganja consumption, which they claim drove him to take the extreme step. Aditya had been living in a rented accommodation in Girinagar with his friends. On April 25, he was among 10 students detained by Vidyagiri police during an anti-ganja drive. He was later released after medical tests reportedly confirmed he had not consumed ganja.
Allegations of extortion and pressure
However, it is alleged that during the process, a lawyer intervened and promised to resolve the matter, collecting money from the students. There are also allegations that some police personnel pressured the students to pay money, threatening legal action if they failed to comply. On Monday night, Aditya reportedly called his mother, Kavita Myageri, asking for Rs 2,000. She was unable to arrange the amount immediately. Later that night, she learned that her son had died by suicide.
Mother alleges repeated police calls demanding money
Kavita alleged that Aditya was distressed by repeated police calls demanding money and threats of being booked in a ganja-related case. Aditya is believed to have hanged himself in his rented room late on Monday night. Coming from a poor background, he was raised by his mother alone.
Concerns over police conduct
While police action against drug consumption and trafficking continues in Dharwad, allegations of harassment and extortion in the name of such drives have raised serious concerns. The incident has sparked outrage among local residents and student groups, who are demanding a thorough investigation into the matter.
