Tumakuru, Mar 20: A 50-year-old man, who was allegedly picked up for questioning in connection with a gambling case, died after collapsing within the premises of a police station in Karnataka’s Tumakuru district, police said on Friday.
The deceased has been identified as Kantaraju, a resident of Yalanadu village in Chikkanayakanahalli taluk.
According to police, he was brought to the Huliyar police station on Thursday for questioning in connection with a suspected gambling-related. A senior officer said that after being served a notice and questioned, Kantaraju collapsed while leaving the station premises.
“He was questioned in connection with a gambling case and served a notice. While exiting the police station, he suddenly collapsed and died within the compound,” the officer said.
Police said the exact cause of death is yet to be determined. A post-mortem examination has been conducted, and further details are awaited.
The incident has sparked protests by villagers and family members, who have alleged that Kantaraju was subjected to torture in custody and have demanded accountability.
Following the allegations, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has ordered a probe by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, the minister said he had sought details from district authorities. “The SP informed me that it was not a case of a lock-up death. However, the exact circumstances are not yet clear. I have decided to hand over the case to CID. The probe will establish whether any wrongdoing, including assault, took place,” he said.
A judicial magistrate inquiry has also been initiated into the incident, police said.
Tumakuru Superintendent of Police Ashok K V has assured that strict action will be taken against any personnel found responsible, based on the findings of the investigation.
Officials added that the CID probe, along with the post-mortem report, is expected to provide clarity on the circumstances leading to the death.
