In a shocking incident from Udupi district, a tattoo artist was allegedly subjected to a brutal assault and shot with an air gun after a dispute over a tattoo escalated violently in Senapura village of Kundapur taluk. The victim, identified as Vivek U, a 30-year-old resident of Manipal, has filed a complaint detailing the harrowing events that unfolded over two days.
Sequence of Events Leading to the Assault
According to the complaint, the incident began on January 29 at around 10 PM when Vivek partially completed a tattoo for an acquaintance named Sagar at his own residence. The following day, Vivek accompanied Sagar to his rented house in Senapura village to finish the remaining tattoo work. However, tensions arose early in the morning on January 31.
Violent Confrontation and Harassment
At approximately 6 AM, while Vivek was asleep at Sagar's house, Sagar allegedly woke him by splashing water on his face and initiated a quarrel. Sagar accused Vivek of not executing the tattoo properly and reportedly used obscene language to abuse him. The situation quickly deteriorated when Sagar's associates, identified as Sumanth and Aditya, joined in.
The associates reportedly tied Vivek up with a rope, subjected him to harassment, and physically assaulted him with their hands and legs. This violent episode continued for several hours, leaving Vivek in severe distress.
Air Gun Shooting and Hospitalization
Around 3:15 PM, as Vivek cried out in pain from the ongoing assault, Sagar allegedly retrieved an air gun from his house. He threatened Vivek and then fired the weapon at his chest. Following this traumatic incident, Vivek was rushed to a hospital in Manipal for medical treatment, where he is currently recovering from his injuries.
Legal Action and Police Investigation
In response to the complaint, the Gangolli police station has registered a case against the accused individuals. The charges include offences under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Indian Arms Act.
Key legal provisions invoked in the case:
- Sections 352, 127(2), 115(2), and 109 read with 3(5) of the BNS, which pertain to assault, criminal intimidation, and abetment of offences.
- Sections 3 and 25 of the Indian Arms Act, addressing illegal possession and use of firearms.
This case highlights serious concerns over personal safety and the escalation of disputes into violent crimes in the region. Authorities are actively investigating the matter to ensure justice is served.
