A Bengaluru advocate died after an alleged assault following a dispute over an auto-rickshaw fare, and police have arrested the driver in connection with the case. Sri Ram, 43, from Kengunte, was found unconscious on Nagarabavi Outer Ring Road on the morning of October 9 and died later the same day at a private hospital.
The death was initially suspected to have resulted from a heart attack. However, an autopsy report received by police indicated that Sri Ram had suffered a head injury and died from a blood clot in the brain. His family had noticed injury marks on his body and approached the jurisdictional police, raising suspicions of foul play.
According to the police, the incident occurred near Ambedkar Institute of Technology in Mallathahalli. The accused, identified as 31-year-old auto driver Pruthviraj Appajigowda from Gollarahatti on Magadi Road, was taken into custody after investigators traced the auto-rickshaw and its driver.
An investigating officer told the Times of India that Sri Ram had asked Pruthviraj for a ride but did not agree to the fare quoted. Sri Ram then reportedly said he would take another auto-rickshaw and walked away. Police allege that Pruthviraj followed him and attacked him after becoming angry over the refusal.
The officer said Sri Ram sustained internal head injuries after being pushed to the ground during the altercation. He was later found unconscious by Hoysala police personnel on patrol, who shifted him to a nearby private hospital. Police said Sri Ram did not disclose that he had lost consciousness after a fight.
Investigators are also looking for other auto-rickshaw drivers who were allegedly present during the incident. Police are examining allegations that Sri Ram’s mobile phone and some cash were taken after the assault. The investigation is continuing, and the allegations against the accused remain subject to the legal process.
