Parents of OpenAI whistleblower reject suicide ruling, demand FBI investigation
San Francisco: The mysterious death of 26-year-old Suchir Balaji, a former OpenAI researcher and whistleblower, has raised serious concerns, with his parents alleging foul play and rejecting the ruling of suicide.
Balaji was found dead in his San Francisco apartment on November 26, with the medical examiner declaring the death a suicide. However, his parents, Balagi Ramamurthy and Ramarao, have disputed the findings, claiming evidence of a struggle and demanding a federal investigation.
"We spoke to him just before his death. He was happy and making plans to visit us in January. There was no suicide note. How can this be ruled a suicide so quickly?" questioned Ramamurthy.
Balaji’s mother highlighted the presence of "blood shots in the bathroom" and signs of a fight, which she believes cannot be ignored.
The incident occurred three months after Balaji publicly accused OpenAI of copyright violations in ChatGPT's development, raising ethical concerns. In an interview with The New York Times, Balaji stated, “If you believe what I believe, you have to just leave the company.” He had resigned in August 2024, citing these concerns.
The San Francisco Police Department reported no signs of foul play during its initial investigation. A gun was found near Balaji’s body, and no other individuals were present at the scene. Despite this, the family claims the probe was rushed.
“It took only 40 seconds for the medical examiner to declare it a suicide,” alleged Ramarao.
Balaji had no known history of mental illness, and his parents have asserted that his ethical stance and advocacy may have made him a target.
A candlelight vigil in Fremont, attended by nearly 80 supporters, called for a deeper investigation. Ganesh Balamitran, a resident, praised Balaji’s work in defending creators’ rights, while Aruja Gupta, a San Jose State University student, demanded the police allocate more resources to the case.
OpenAI has expressed condolences and offered support to Balaji’s family, stating the company was "devastated" by his death.
Balaji’s parents continue to push for an FBI-led investigation, believing only a federal probe can reveal the truth behind their son’s death. "Suchir was brilliant and ethical. He deserves justice," said Ramarao.
The case remains under investigation.
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Vote rigging charges against MLA DN Jeevaraj: HC grants interim stay on FIR
Bengaluru: Karnataka High Court has issued an interim stay on the FIR against Sringeri legislator DN Jeevaraj, who is accused of vote rigging.
A vacation bench consisting of Justice V Sreeshananda heard on Tuesday the BJP MLA’s plea urging the HC to quash the case against him.
After hearing the arguments, the judge granted an interim stay on the case against Jeevaraj.
The hearing of the case has been adjourned to Thursday, May 7.
