Karwar | Uttara Kannada: A violent clash allegedly triggered by an illicit relationship led to the death of a man in Avaraguppa village of Siddapur taluk, Uttara Kannada district, police said.
According to the police, tensions erupted after Mahesh Naik lodged a complaint at the Siddapur police station, alleging an extramarital relationship involving his wife Suchitra and a local astrologer Kamalakar Bhatt. The complaint was reportedly filed after the couple’s elder daughter informed her father about the alleged relationship.
Police said the situation escalated when Suchitra, along with her father Lokanath and associates, allegedly confronted Mahesh Naik and his relatives. During the ensuing altercation, Mahesh Naik, Vasanth Naik, and Kumar were assaulted, sustaining serious injuries.
Vasanth Naik succumbed to his injuries while being taken to hospital, while Mahesh Naik and Kumar are currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital. Their condition is said to be serious.
Following the incident, police launched a manhunt and arrested seven accused, including astrologer Kamalakar Bhatt and Suchitra. Four of the accused were detained in Siddapur, while three others were apprehended in Shivamogga during follow-up operations.
Police further stated that Mahesh Naik had been residing in Bengaluru for work and used to visit Siddapur during holidays. Suchitra was living in Siddapur with her two daughters. Investigators said the elder daughter had earlier questioned her mother’s conduct, following which the children were allegedly subjected to harassment.
Based on the complaint and subsequent investigation, the Siddapur police have registered an FIR under relevant sections of the IPC for murder and related offences. Further investigation is underway.
