Former Karnataka Director General of Police (DGP) Om Prakash was found deceased at his residence in Bengaluru under circumstances that have prompted a police investigation. He was 68.
According to sources familiar with the case, a domestic dispute reportedly occurred between Mr. Prakash and his wife, Pallavi, earlier in the day. During this incident, she is alleged to have thrown a substance believed to be chilli powder at him and later assaulted him. Authorities say he sustained multiple injuries, including stab wounds and trauma from an object.
Shortly after the incident, Pallavi reportedly contacted an acquaintance to inform them of the situation. This led to the police being alerted and responding to the residence in the early hours of the morning. Law enforcement officials detained both Pallavi and the couple’s daughter for questioning. Investigators have confirmed they have been interviewed over the course of several hours.
Police have registered a case based on a complaint filed by Mr. Prakash’s son. An investigation is currently underway to determine the sequence of events and to ascertain the involvement of any other individuals. Preliminary findings suggest that the altercation may have stemmed from a disagreement regarding property matters. Authorities are also examining whether there were any other contributing factors.
Additional Commissioner of Police Vikas Kumar confirmed that the police were notified of the incident around 4 a.m., and an inquiry is ongoing.
Mr. Om Prakash, a 1981-batch Indian Police Service officer, held several key positions during his career. He was appointed as Karnataka’s DGP in March 2015 and had earlier led the Fire and Emergency Services as well as the Home Guards. Originally from Bihar, he held a Master’s degree in Geology and was widely respected in professional circles.
Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara expressed his condolences, stating: “It’s deeply saddening. Preliminary information suggests that his wife may be involved, but a full investigation is underway. Mr. Prakash served with distinction and was a respected officer. We must await the findings of the inquiry.”
Authorities have urged the public and media to refrain from speculation and allow the investigation to take its course.
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