A tragic incident involving a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker has sent shockwaves through Kalaburagi district in Karnataka. A woman party member died after setting herself on fire in front of another BJP worker's residence, leading to serious allegations and a police hunt.
The Fatal Evening in Nandikur Village
The event unfolded on Saturday evening in Nandikur village, located on the outskirts of Kalaburagi city. The deceased has been identified as Jyothi Patil, aged 35, a resident of Bhrahmapur in Kalaburagi. According to initial reports, Jyothi went to the house of BJP leader Mallinath Biradar.
Upon arriving, she inquired about Biradar with his wife, who informed her that he was not at home. In a sudden and devastating act, Jyothi then poured petrol on herself and set herself ablaze right outside the house. The reasons behind this extreme step are now the centre of a complex investigation.
Political Links and a Husband's Allegation
Investigations reveal a close working relationship between the deceased and the accused. It is reported that both Jyothi Patil and Mallinath Biradar worked together for the Kalaburagi-South constituency during the 2023 assembly elections. This professional association reportedly brought them close, and sources indicate they were involved in certain financial commitments together.
The case took a serious turn when Jyothi's husband, Chidanand, filed a formal complaint with the Farhatabad police. In his complaint, he has alleged that his wife was murdered by Mallinath Biradar. He claims that Biradar provoked Jyothi to commit suicide and has demanded legal action against the BJP leader.
Police Investigation and Manhunt Launched
The Kalaburagi city police have registered a case and initiated an investigation. Kalaburagi city police commissioner Sharanappa SD addressed the media, stating that preliminary information suggests Jyothi Patil committed suicide for personal reasons. However, the police are actively pursuing the complaint filed by the husband.
A critical development in the case is that the accused, Mallinath Biradar, is currently absconding. Commissioner Sharanappa confirmed that police teams have been formed to trace and detain him for questioning. The investigation will now scrutinise the nature of the relationship between the two BJP workers and the alleged financial dealings to establish a clear motive behind the tragic suicide.
This incident has cast a shadow over local political circles in Kalaburagi, raising questions that only a thorough police probe can answer. The community awaits further details as the search for the absconding leader continues.