Karnataka doctor found dead, police suspect mental distress over online backlash
Karwar: In a shocking incident, a doctor from Karwar district allegedly committed suicide by shooting himself with a double-barreled gun at his residence. He was reportedly under severe mental distress after facing online criticism over an unverified viral video.
According to police, the video showed the doctor being accused of giving an expired medicine to a patient. However, the allegation had not been verified. Despite this, the video spread widely on social media, and several netizens criticised and abused the doctor online, which is believed to have affected him mentally.
Although the exact reason behind the extreme step is not yet clear, police suspect that the doctor was unable to cope with the mental pressure caused by the alleged accusations.
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As per a News 18 media report, the incident occurred after a video allegedly recorded by a patient’s relative at Pikle Nursing Home in Karwar, where the doctor was associated. The doctor was a well-known medical professional who had served the local community for many years.
The video, recorded around 15 days ago, accused him of administering expired medicines and was circulated on social media without verification, leading to widespread public backlash.
After the video went viral, the doctor reportedly suffered severe mental distress. The online reactions and damage to his professional reputation are believed to have deeply affected him.
The doctor later died by suicide at his residence. He was found dead by his family members, who alerted the police. Upon receiving the information, the police reached the spot and conducted a preliminary investigation.
The police then sent his body for post-mortem examination. Preliminary findings suggest a possible link between the viral video and the doctor’s mental distress.
A case has been registered, and an investigation is underway.
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