Mani who was running a chicken centre at Hebbagodi reportedly had a number of financial dealings with Nagaraj. The two allegedly had a heated exchange after they developed a misunderstanding in one of their deals. Nagaraj, who reportedly enjoys considerable clout with the Hebbagodi police immediately lodged a complaint.
Mani was taken into custody on Sunday night and was allegedly harassed by the sub-inspector of Hebbagodi, Narayan. Mani, the sole bread winner in his family, was released after his mother pleaded with local politicians.
The local politicians then reportedly persuaded the police to release him. Unable to stomach this assault on his pride, Mani committed suicide by consuming poison.
Human rights organisation South India Cell for Human Rights Education and Monitoring (SICHREM) has taken up the case.
Published 18 June 2009, 18:58 IST