BJP Worker Vinay Somaiah Dies by Suicide in Bengaluru, Alleges Political Harassment:

Vinay Somaiah, a 35-year-old BJP functionary from Kodagu district, allegedly died by suicide at his office in the Nagawara area of Bengaluru. Reports suggest that he was driven to take this step due to a politically motivated First Information Report (FIR) filed against him.

Somaiah's suicide letter pointed to harassment by Congress leader Tenneera Maheena and MLA AS Ponnanna, accusing them of falsely implicating him in a case related to a WhatsApp group post.

Background: FIR Over WhatsApp Group Post

Somaiah was arrested earlier for a comment posted in the WhatsApp group Kodagina Samasyegalu that criticized Congress MLA AS Ponnanna. Though he was granted bail and secured a court stay on the FIR, Somaiah claimed the harassment continued.

In his suicide note, he expressed mental distress and described how being added as an admin of the group just five days before the controversial message led to him being held responsible.

Key Claims from Vinay Somaiah’s Suicide Note

Accused of being responsible for someone else’s WhatsApp post

Alleged continuous police and political harassment despite legal relief

Expressed fear of being labeled a “rowdy-sheeter”

Requested the BJP to support his mother, wife, and daughter

Held Tenneera Maheena directly responsible for his death

Political Reactions and Calls for Investigation

Karnataka’s Home Minister G Parameshwara stated that the matter would be investigated thoroughly and action would be taken based on the findings.

BJP state president BY Vijayendra termed the incident “deeply tragic” and called for a fair and transparent investigation. He alleged that BJP workers have faced increasing intimidation since the Congress government came to power.

According to NDTV, Vinay expressed concern that politically motivated efforts were damaging his reputation, even after legal interventions had cleared him.