GP employee ends life, suicide note alleges harassment by PDO

Davanagere: A gram panchayat employee from Katenahalli village in Jagalur taluk of Davanagere district allegedly died by suicide after leaving behind a note blaming workplace harassment.

Police have launched an investigation following a complaint filed at Bilichodu police station on Monday. The incident came to light on Tuesday.The deceased was identified as 49-year-old Shivanna, a resident of Katenahalli. He had served as a waterman at Bilichodu gram panchayat for nearly 23 years and was recently promoted as a revenue tax officer (bill collector). His death has left family members and colleagues in shock.A note believed to have been written by Shivanna was reportedly recovered from the spot. According to police sources, the note stated that he was taking the extreme step due to alleged harassment by the Bilichodu gram panchayat PDO. Police are verifying the authenticity of the note, which is expected to play a crucial role in the investigation.Shivanna is survived by his wife, a son and two daughters. His son has demanded strict action against those allegedly responsible for driving his father to take the extreme step.

A complaint in the case was lodged by a person identified as Ashok at Bilichodu police station. Investigators are gathering details regarding the allegations mentioned in the note, Shivanna’s working conditions and other circumstances linked to the case.Police said further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.