Man Attempts Suicide Outside Bengaluru's Vidhana Soudha Amid Police Investigation
A 38-year-old man attempted suicide outside the iconic Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on Friday, January 24, 2026, in a dramatic incident that has drawn attention to ongoing police investigations into alleged vigilantism. The man, whose identity has not been disclosed, claimed he was being harassed by law enforcement for his role in exposing what he believed to be illegal Bangladeshi immigrants in the Soladevanahalli area.
Swift Police Intervention Prevents Tragedy
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Akshay M Hakay of the Central Division, the incident occurred around 11:30 AM. Police personnel on duty responded promptly and intervened to prevent the suicide attempt. The man was immediately shifted to Bowring Hospital, where medical officials reported him to be in stable condition. This quick action by the authorities likely averted a more severe outcome.
Background of the Case and Alleged Vigilantism
Preliminary information from the police indicates that the man was facing questioning in a case registered at the Soladevanahalli police station. He was allegedly part of a group led by right-wing activist Puneeth Kerehalli, which went door-to-door questioning residents about their nationality, suspecting them to be Bangladeshi immigrants. Both the man and Kerehalli were booked in connection with this incident, with Kerehalli later arrested and released on bail by a court.
Legal Proceedings and FIR Registration
In response to the suicide attempt, the Vidhan Soudha police station has registered a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 226 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. This section pertains to attempting suicide to compel or restrain a public servant from discharging their lawful duty. The police have stated that further investigation is underway to uncover all aspects of the case, including the motivations behind the suicide attempt and the broader context of the alleged vigilantism.
Implications and Ongoing Developments
This incident highlights the tensions surrounding immigration issues in urban areas like Bengaluru and raises questions about the methods used by some groups to address such concerns. The police probe into the door-to-door questioning activities continues, with authorities emphasizing the importance of lawful procedures in handling suspected immigration cases. As the investigation progresses, more details are expected to emerge regarding the man's claims and the overall situation in Soladevanahalli.
