In a heartbreaking incident that has shaken the quiet coastal village of Kadra near Karwar in Uttara Kannada district, 20-year-old Rachel D'Souza died by suicide on January 9, 2026. She reportedly hanged herself at her family home in KPC Colony, Kadra, around 2:30 PM.
The death has triggered widespread public anger, allegations of prolonged mental harassment and possible abetment to suicide, claims of physical and sexual abuse supported by postmortem observations, police negligence, and protests demanding swift justice. The case has also raised questions about potential political influence, as the primary accused is the son of a local leader from the Janata Dal (Secular) party.
### Family's Complaint and Allegations
Rachel father, Christoda Francis D'Souza , along with her mother Reena, lodged a complaint at Kadra Police Station shortly after the incident. Based on the complaint, police registered a case under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, which deals with abetment of suicide (Gunna No. 03/2026).
According to the family and details cited in the FIR:
- The accused, Chirag Kotharkar son of Chaitra Kotharkar (JD(S) district chief in Uttara Kannada), allegedly knew Rischel and frequently contacted her via calls, visited her vicinity, and engaged in persistent interaction.
- The family claims Chirag subjected her to sustained mental harassment, including stalking-like behavior and repeated pressure, possibly linked to her rejecting his advances or proposals.
- The complaint reportedly quotes Chirag as making disturbing statements such as: "You should die anyway. It is better for you to die than to live." The family alleges these words, combined with ongoing torment, directly instigated her suicide.
Additionally, family members and supporters have highlighted irregularities noted during the postmortem examination conducted after her death. Reports indicate the body showed bite marks, blood stains, and other anomalies that have led to suspicions of physical assault and sexual abuse prior to her death. The family has accused authorities of deliberately delaying the release of the full postmortem report, hampering the investigation.
### Police Response and Suspension
A case of abetment to suicide was promptly registered against Chirag Kotharkar. However, as of late January 2026, he had not been arrested—despite over 20 days passing since the incident—prompting sharp criticism from the family, local organizations, and the public.
On January 18, 2026, Uttara Kannada Superintendent of Police Deepan N. M. suspended Kadra Sub-Inspector Sunil Bandivaddar for alleged dereliction of duty, negligence, and inaction in handling the probe. The suspension was described as stemming from lapses in the initial investigation and failure to act decisively.
The family and protesters have expressed deep distrust in the local police, alleging bias, possible cooperation with the accused due to his political connections, and obstruction of justice.
### Public Outcry and Protests
The delay in arresting the accused led to protests on or around January 20, 2026. Demonstrations were organized under the leadership of the Karwar Diocese Women's Commission, along with various local organizations and community groups. Protesters submitted memorandums and appeals to higher authorities, including:
- The District Magistrate
- Chief Minister Siddaramaiah
- Home Minister G. Parameshwara
- Director General of Police
It is very surprising that the police have failed to arrest the accused Chirag Kotharakar even after 20 days of this death. It is regrettable that some officers are cooperating with the accused. Therefore, our faith in the police officers there and their impartial investigation has been lost. Since the accused has not been arrested after the suicide of the said Rachel D'Souza, we have protested on 20/01/2026 under the leadership of the Karwar Diocese Women's Commission and various organizations and appealed to the Honorable Ministers through the Honorable District Magistrate.
Karnataka Christa Sanghatane Founder and State President Mr.stany Pinto
They demanded the immediate arrest of Chirag Kotharkar, a thorough and impartial investigation, swift release of the postmortem report, and strict action against any officials found shielding the accused. an SIT to Be Formed They Demanded
The last rites for Rachel were performed on January 10, 2026, at the cemetery opposite St. Anthony's Church in Kadra.
### Broader Implications
This case has spotlighted concerns over mental harassment, abetment to suicide, the handling of sensitive cases involving influential figures, and accountability in law enforcement—particularly in smaller stations. It echoes broader debates in Karnataka about justice for women facing harassment, the role of political connections, and the need for prompt, unbiased police action.
As of now (January 29, 2026), no confirmed updates indicate an arrest or major breakthroughs in the investigation. The family continues to seek justice, and the incident remains under scrutiny from local media, women's rights groups, and the community.
Authorities have not issued detailed public statements beyond the suspension, and the investigation is reportedly ongoing. The tragic loss of a young life has left Kadra and Karwar grappling with grief and calls for systemic change to prevent such incidents.
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