Techie dies by suicide in Bengaluru after alleged harassment by neighbors, civic staff

A 45-year-old software engineer in Bengaluru took his own life at his under-construction home, citing severe mental harassment from two relatives and involvement of BBMP officials, according to a police complaint.

Murali Govindaraju was found hanging early December 3 morning on the second floor of his property in Whitefield. A suicide note recovered at the scene detailed the ordeal.

Murali had purchased the plot in 2018 from sellers linked to neighbours Usha and Shashi Nambiar. Over the past month, the couple allegedly demanded Rs 20 lakh from him without justification.

When he refused, they reportedly enlisted Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) staff to pressure him, escalating his mental distress.

His mother’s complaint states that the persistent harassment and threats drove Murali to despair. Before the incident, he confided in his family about the ongoing pressure.

Whitefield Police have registered an FIR against the Nambiars for harassment and abetment of suicide. Investigation is ongoing, officials said.