Bengaluru (PTI): Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday said that a proper investigation will be conducted into the Chitradurga bus accident in which at least nine people were killed.

He expressed grief over the loss of lives in the accident.

At least nine people were killed when a speeding container truck crashed into a private luxury sleeper bus, which caught fire under the impact, near Hiriyur here at 2 am on Thursday, a senior police official said.

ALSO READ: Delhi Police steps up security across city on Christmas

The bus was on its way to Gokarna from Bengaluru.

"My heart shook hearing the news of the horrific accident between a lorry (container truck) and a bus near Chitradurga in which many passengers were burnt alive. It is regrettable that the journey of those who were going home for the Christmas holidays ended in such a tragedy," Siddaramaiah posted on 'X'.

He said, "A proper investigation into the accident will be conducted, and the cause will be found out. I pray that the souls of the deceased may rest in peace. I also share the grief of the families of those who died in the accident."

Expressing shock over the accident and loss of lives, Deputy CM D K Shivakumar said, "I express my condolences to the deceased. I wish the injured a speedy recovery. May such tragedies not recur."

Former prime minister H D Deve Gowda and state BJP President B Y Vijayendra too have expressed shock over the incident. They have offered condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.

Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.



Chitradurga (Karnataka) (PTI): An Ayurvedic student allegedly died by suicide in Holalkere town after being distressed over defamatory rumours linking her to a lecturer, police sources said on Thursday.

According to police, the student was reportedly upset over false allegations spread by some individuals about her having a relationship with a faculty member.

"The victim was deeply affected by the defamation and is suspected to have taken the extreme step due to mental distress caused by such rumours," police sources said.

Police said the student left behind a death note before hanging herself in her house on Wednesday. She has explained the reasons behind her decision.

"The note contains references to certain individuals, including a faculty member, and mentions alleged harassment by some students. It also indicates that action should be taken against those responsible," sources added.

Based on the contents of the death note, a case has been registered at the Holalkere police station.

"We are examining the allegations mentioned in the note, including the source of the defamatory campaign and whether the victim was subjected to mental harassment. The role of all those named is being verified," police sources said.

Family members told police that the student had not shared any such issues earlier and that the incident came as a shock.

In his statement, the victim's brother said, "If something like this has happened, there must be some serious issue. But she never shared anything about it. We don't understand what exactly led to this. She used to tell us everything, and never appeared disturbed. This sudden decision has surprised us."

He further stated that a complaint has been lodged and all relevant materials, including the death note, have been submitted to the police.

Police said further investigation is underway.

(Assistance for overcoming suicidal thoughts is available on the state’s health helpline 104, Tele-MANAS 14416.)