Bengaluru Woman’s Suicide Linked to Dowry Harassment Allegations

BENGALURU: A tragic incident in northwest Bengaluru has led to the arrest of a private company employee, J Nandish, accused of abetting his wife’s suicide. The woman, N Poojashri, was found dead on Sunday at their Bagalagunte residence, leaving behind her husband and their two-year-old daughter. Authorities have launched an investigation following a complaint filed by Poojashri’s mother, B Chandrakala, alleging persistent dowry harassment.

Poojashri, originally from Bhadravati in Shivamogga district, married Nandish three years ago. According to police, she frequently reported harassment by her husband and mother-in-law over dowry demands. The situation reportedly escalated when Poojashri confronted Nandish about his alleged relationship with another woman, leading to physical assault. On the day of her death, Poojashri was alone at home while her husband and daughter were away. Police stated she died by hanging.

The case has drawn attention due to its timing, following another recent tragedy in Bengaluru. A 27-year-old pregnant software engineer, P Shilpa, was found dead in her BTM Layout residence. No suicide note was recovered, but her family also alleged dowry harassment by her husband and in-laws.

In Poojashri’s case, a formal complaint led to the booking of Nandish, his mother Shantamma, and three others on charges of dowry harassment and abetment to suicide. The investigation is ongoing, with police examining the circumstances surrounding her death.

This incident underscores the persistent issue of dowry-related abuse in the region, prompting renewed calls for awareness and stricter enforcement of anti-dowry laws. The Bengaluru police are actively probing both cases, with a focus on delivering justice for the victims and their families.