The suicide of a woman allegedly due to severe online trolling for her support of Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has prompted widespread condemnation and an ex gratia from the state government. G Gitanjali, a homemaker, died by suicide by jumping in front of a running train at Tenali railway station in the Guntur district on March 7.
Till now, the family alleges that Gitanjali took the extreme step since she was the target of online harassment by social media users associated with the opposition party. In response to these allegations, Guntur District Superintendent of Police Tushar Dudi told in a press conference that certain social media profiles had been identified in connection to the incident, and assured that appropriate legal actions would be pursued.
In the investigation, Guntur Superintendent of Police Tushar Dudi said, "Geetanjali took part in a program where she was awarded a land patta. During this event, she gave an interview to local media channels, and it quickly went viral across various platforms. After getting viral she was brutally trolled. The language used on Geethanjali by trolls does not have any place in the civilized world. She could not cope up with it and took the extreme step."
The incident has ignited a wave of support for the victim's family from the ruling YSR Congress Party with several party leaders including Health Minister V Rajani visiting Gitanjali's household to offer condolences and support.
Following this, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed his shock and announced Rs 20 lakh ex gratia payment to Gitanjali's bereaved family. The Chief Minister also issued instructions for officials to provide all necessary assistance to the family during the difficult time.
Meanwhile, YSRCP leaders alleged that TDP social media supporters were responsible for her death.
(If anyone faces mental health issues or knows anyone having suicidal feelings, they can seek emotional support with helpline numbers from suicide prevention organizations in the state.
Tamil Nadu: The State Health Department's Suicide Helpline is 104.
Sneha Suicide Prevention Centre: 044 24640050)