Bengaluru: Former Karnataka Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG IGP) Om Prakash was tragically stabbed to death by his wife, an incident that has sent shockwaves throughout the state and beyond. The gruesome event took place in their residence located in the HSR Layout area of Bengaluru on Sunday , igniting widespread media coverage and public outrage.
Om Prakash, a distinguished officer of the Indian Police Service (IPS) from the 1981 batch of the Karnataka cadre, had an illustrious career that culminated in his retirement in 2017 as the state’s DG and IGP. Known for his dedication and service, he was well-respected in law enforcement circles. On the afternoon of April 20, his life was abruptly cut short when he was found lying in a pool of his own blood at home. Initial investigations revealed that he had been murdered, and it was later confirmed that his wife, Pallavi, was responsible for the tragic act.
Witnesses reported that the couple had a history of frequent arguments, often stemming from ongoing financial disputes. The police speculated that these domestic conflicts likely led to the brutal confrontation that ultimately resulted in Om Prakash’s death. It has also come to light that Om Prakash had chosen to bequeath his property directly to their son, Karthikesh, rather than to Pallavi, which could have added to the underlying tensions. Allegations suggest that the decision to transfer ownership to their son might have ignited a sudden and violent reaction from Pallavi, pointing towards possible motives that investigators will no doubt explore as the case unfolds. Another surce told that Omprakash bought three acres of land in Joida taluk in Uttara Kannada district in his sisters name made wife angry. Wife Pallavi torturing him to transfer the land to her name. However Om Prakash refused to transfer and warned her not to talk about property in future.
Coupled with his professional achievements, Om Prakash maintained active involvement in various personal projects outside of his career in law enforcement. He had invested in a sandalwood plantation in Sama Joida village, situated in the Joida taluk. This plantation encompassed approximately 3 acres and 20 guntas in the survey number 3 of Nagoda village, which he purchased between the years 2011 and 2012. A serene farmhouse was constructed within this plantation, where he frequently retreated to rest. The plantation was not solely limited to sandalwood; Om Prakash had also cultivated several other crops, including bananas, black pepper, and sago palm. His commitment to agriculture was evident, having nurtured the land and its yield over the years.
Last year thieves stole sandalwood trees from Om Prakashs farm house and a case was registered at Joida police station. he owned five acres of land near the Kali River in Supa Taluk and had plans to convert this property into a resort. The proximity to the river lent itself to recreational activities, including rafting, which he had already begun to develop on the property. Notably, all the assets were registered in the name of his son, Karthikesh, once again signaling a potential source of friction within the family.
As police investigations commenced, preliminary findings indicated that Pallavi had fatally stabbed her husband with a knife multiple times—estimated between eight to ten stabs. The visceral nature of the attack was apparent, with injuries inflicted primarily to his chest, stomach, and hand, leading to catastrophic blood loss. Reports described a harrowing scene; the hallway of their home was drenched in blood, illustrating the violence of the attack. It was noted that Om Prakash lay incapacitated for approximately 15 to 20 minutes before succumbing to his injuries, during which time, it is alleged that Pallavi stood by, passively observing her husband in his final agonies.
In a shocking twist to these events, after the death of Om Prakash, Pallavi reportedly made a video call to the wife of another retired DG and IGP, declaring ominously, “I have finished the monster.” This statement, coming in the immediate aftermath of such a heinous act, raises numerous questions about her state of mind and motivations.
Om Prakash had deep roots in Bihar, hailing from Champaran district. His career began modestly as the Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in Harapanahalli, a part of the then Bellary district. He showcased his capabilities in various capacities, subsequently serving as District Superintendent of Police in prominent districts like Shivamogga, Uttara Kannada, and Chikkamagaluru. His journey through law enforcement included roles such as SP of the State Vigilance Cell, Deputy Inspector General of the Fire Brigade in the Karnataka Lokayukta, and Inspector General of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Om Prakash ascended to the esteemed position of Director General of Police in March 2015, before retiring from this role in 2017.
The tragic circumstances surrounding Om Prakash’s death have raised significant public concern over domestic violence and mental health issues within families, particularly in high-pressure professions. As investigations carry on, the revelation of motives, circumstances, and the psychological state of both parties will play a critical role in the proceedings. The dualities of his remarkable public service juxtaposed with the tragedy of his demise mark a somber chapter in Karnataka’s history, one that demands introspection about the hidden struggles faced by many, even those perceived as pillars of strength in society.
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