SHIVAMOGGA: Following the suicide of a BJP leader’s wife in Soraba town, police have arrested the prominent leader on allegations that his harassment led to her death. Prabhu Mestri, the former president of the Soraba Town Municipal Council, has now been sent to jail.

Background of the Incident:

Last Sunday, Manjula (38) committed suicide by hanging at her residence in the Kanukeri extension of Soraba town. The deceased, Manjula, hailed from Hosaveerapura village in the Hirekerur taluk of Haveri district. She was the second wife of BJP leader Prabhu Mestri.

Was an Illicit Affair the Cause of Death?

According to allegations made by family members, Prabhu Mestri married Manjula as his second wife in 2024. However, it is alleged that even after the marriage, he maintained an illicit relationship with another woman. This led to frequent quarrels between the couple. Although a settlement meeting (Panchayats) was held previously to resolve the issue, Prabhu Mestri reportedly continued his behavior.

Complaint Filed by Mother:

Manjula's mother filed a complaint at the Soraba police station, stating that physical and mental harassment by her son-in-law, Prabhu Mestri, was the direct cause of her daughter's death. The complaint stated that his illicit relationship caused domestic turmoil, ultimately inciting her to take the extreme step.

Police Action and Arrest:

Immediately after the complaint was registered, the Soraba police took action and arrested BJP leader Prabhu Mestri. The accused was produced before the court and is currently in judicial custody. The arrest of the leader, who was well-known in both the hardware business and local politics, has created a stir in the political circles of Soraba. A life has been lost due to domestic discord and allegations of an illicit affair, and the law is now taking its course.