HAVERI: Fearing public reprisal and legal action for harassing his wife Shivappa Hosagoudra (28) committed suicide here on Friday.
Sharada (24), Shivappa's wife, attempted to jump in front of a moving train four days ago. Witnesses rescued her and brought her to Santwana, a centre that provides shelter to victims of dowry, sexual harassment and domestic violence.
Sharada narrated her woes to the Santwana officials. They wrote a letter to Shivappa asking him to appear before an advocate on July 18. Fearing the consequences, Shivappa committed suicide on Friday evening by hanging himself.
Sharada has a 14-month-old-baby and is pregnant.
Basappa, a villager, blamed Santwana for Shivappa's suicide. "Misunderstandings are common at home and these should not be made public. Santwana workers should give priority to the family and think of the effect their action will have on the family of the victim."
Sharada refused to cremate her husband demanding justice. CPI Murugendraiah rushed to the spot and assured villagers of an inquiry.