Chikkamagaluru: Srinanda (14), a young girl from Kerala who had gone mysteriously missing while on a trip to Chikkamagaluru, has been found dead in a 2,000-foot-deep gorge near Manikhyadhara Falls, close to Mullayanagiri. While it was initially suspected to be an accidental fall, a statement given by her father to the police has now raised several questions surrounding her death.

Background of the Incident

Srinanda, a native of Kerala, had visited various tourist spots in Chikkamagaluru with her family on April 7. On Tuesday evening, around 5:30 PM, she went missing right before her family's eyes while they were descending the steps at Manikhyadhara. After a continuous three-day search operation by the police, forest department, and local rescue teams, her body was finally located yesterday (April 10) in an extremely treacherous ravine.

New Twist Following Father’s Statement

A statement provided by the girl’s father, Ramesh, has given a major twist to the case, It is reported that while Srinanda was taking selfies near Manikhyadhara, her father, Ramesh, scolded her regarding her mobile phone usage. He had reportedly warned her and demanded that she hand over the phone. Distraught by being scolded in front of others, Srinanda reportedly did not proceed toward the falls but turned back toward the parking area. She went missing shortly after.There is a strong suspicion that the girl, hurt by her father’s words, may have jumped into the gorge near the parking lot to end her life.

Current Status of Investigation

The police are currently investigating whether she accidentally slipped or intentionally took her own life due to distress. Since the body was found at a depth of approximately 2,000 feet in a very difficult terrain, the recovery operation has been exceptionally challenging.