Bengaluru: A 45-year-old businessman and BJP functionary, M Venkatesh, died by suicide at his office in Vyalikaval, allegedly because of huge debt.The incident came to light late Wednesday night when neighbours alerted police over a foul smell emanating from the closed office of Sai Venki Tours and Travels at Vinayaka Circle. Police broke the door to find Venkatesh’s half-decomposed body hanging from the ceiling fan. Besides his travel agency, the victim ran a chit fund business there. In a self-recorded video on a mobile phone placed on the table, Venkatesh said he was deep in debt. “Never indulge in chit fund business involving a heavy amount,” he said in the video. His wife was estranged from him, and he lived with his siblings and others, police said. Since he had the habit of going on tours with friends, the family did not notice his absence, an officer said.If you are having suicidal thoughts or need emotional support, call suicide-prevention helplines: Tele-Manas helpline: 14416 or 1800-891-4416, Sahai Helpline: 080-25497777.
