Bengaluru techie dies by suicide, uncle arrested for blackmail

A 24-year-old software engineer died by suicide after setting herself ablaze in a hotel room in Bengaluru, allegedly due to blackmail by her uncle and aunt, police said on Thursday. The incident occurred on Sunday evening at Radha Hometel, near Kundalahalli metro station.

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According to the Whitefield Deputy Commissioner of Police Shivakumar Gunar, the woman’s uncle, the main accused, had coerced her to meet him at the hotel by threatening to expose private photos and videos to her parents. Despite her initial reluctance, the woman complied but carried petrol with her. Inside the hotel room, she poured the petrol on herself and set herself ablaze. She was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to her injuries.

The victim’s mother revealed that her daughter had been living with her uncle and aunt for six years and accompanied them on trips. Police have arrested the uncle and seized a pen drive containing incriminating material. A case has been registered against the uncle and his wife under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at HAL Police Station.

This tragic incident highlights the devastating consequences of blackmail and abuse. A detailed investigation is underway to uncover the full scope of the crime and bring all responsible parties to justice.