Bagalkote: The death of a 19-year-old Hindu girl in Bagalkote has triggered intense controversy, with family members alleging harassment by a youth from another community and Hindu organisations branding the case as “love jihad,” even as police continue their investigation.
The deceased, identified as Bhumika Tippannavar, was found hanging at her residence in Sector No. 48 of Bagalkote city. Bhumika, who worked as salesgirl at a tyre shop, is suspected to have died by suicide under circumstances that have raised multiple questions.
According to preliminary information, Bhumika had been in a relationship for nearly two years with a youth identified as Dongrisab Nadaf, an auto driver. However, what led to the extreme step remains unclear, and investigators are probing all angles.
Soon after the incident came to light, Bagalkote Superintendent of Police Siddharth Goyal visited the spot and reviewed the situation. Police from Navanagar station have registered a case and begun a detailed inquiry.
Family members have directly blamed Nadaf for Bhumika’s death. Speaking to the media, her aunt Lakshmi alleged that the accused used to frequently come near their house, make repeated phone calls, and pressure Bhumika to meet him. “He would call and message her constantly, asking her to go out with him. Even late at night, they would be speaking on the phone. He harassed her and forced her to stay in the relationship. Because of this pressure, she ended her life,” she claimed, demanding strict action.
Bhumika’s mother Sangita also filed a complaint, stating that the accused had been in contact with her daughter for nearly four years and had even approached the family seeking marriage. “We did not agree. We warned our daughter to stay away, but she did not listen. Now we have lost her. We want justice,” she said.
The case has taken a sharper turn with Hindu organisations stepping in and terming the incident as a case of “love jihad.” Leaders from Hindu groups have alleged that the relationship involved coercion and possible attempts at religious conversion. They claimed that the youth had been misbehaving with Bhumika for years, allegedly stalking her and pressuring her to change her religion.
One of the leaders alleged that Bhumika had been seen wearing a hijab in recent times, raising suspicion among family members. There are also unverified claims that she may have written a death note, though police have not confirmed this.
These allegations have further fuelled tensions in the area, with Hindu groups warning of protests and demanding a thorough probe. They have also raised suspicions about the handling of evidence and called for transparency in the investigation.
However, police officials have maintained that the investigation is still in its early stages and cautioned against jumping to conclusions. Sources indicated that all aspects—including personal relationship issues, alleged harassment, and other possible factors—are being examined.
