Hyderabad: A municipal election candidate died by suicide in Makthal town of Narayanpet district in the early hours of Tuesday, with local residents citing intense pressure linked to election expenses.
The deceased, Mahadevappa (43), was contesting from Ward No. 6 of Makthal municipality, which is reserved for Scheduled Tribes. According to locals, major political parties fielded three brothers from the same family in the ward.
Mahadevappa contested on a Bharatiya Janata Party ticket, while his elder brother entered the race on a Congress ticket. Their younger brother filed nomination on behalf of the BRS but withdrew from the contest on the last day of withdrawals.
With the contest narrowed to two brothers, both candidates intensified their campaigns in the ward.
Suicide linked to election spending pressure
According to local accounts, party workers allegedly demanded distribution of money and liquor in the ward, citing similar practices elsewhere. Mahadevappa reportedly told party workers on Monday that he could spend only ₹1 lakh and could not afford further expenditure.
Under mounting pressure, Mahadevappa took the extreme step and died by suicide at his residence early on Tuesday. Neighbours noticed the incident and immediately alerted the police, who rushed to the spot.
As the suicide involved a recognised political party candidate, officials indicated that authorities may postpone the election in the ward. Police registered a case and launched an investigation to ascertain the circumstances that led to the death.
The incident has once again highlighted the financial pressure and mental stress faced by candidates during local body elections.