The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Karnataka): In a heart-wrenching incident from Karnataka’s Chitradurga, 24-year-old Ranjitha took her own life, leaving behind a note that unveiled a tale of financial desperation tied to her husband’s cricket betting debts. The local police discovered her lifeless body at their home, alongside a suicide note that detailed the harassment the family endured from moneylenders due to a staggering debt of approximately ₹1.5 crore incurred by her husband, Darshan Babu.
Darshan, employed as an assistant engineer, succumbed to the lure of cricket betting, a decision that spiraled into a financial nightmare for the family. Despite initial successes, his foray into betting on Indian Premier League (IPL) matches quickly led to a debt exceeding ₹1 crore, driven by high-interest loans. This financial burden became too heavy for Ranjitha, who saw no escape from the mounting pressure, leading to her tragic decision.
In the aftermath, police action has been initiated against 13 individuals connected to this case, with three being directly named. Darshan’s father-in-law defended his son-in-law, stating that while most of the borrowed money had been repaid, around ₹54 lakh remained outstanding. He portrayed Darshan as a victim of coercion into betting, with false assurances of easy wealth and financial security.
This tragic event casts a spotlight on the destructive path of gambling addiction and the devastating impact it can have on families. The local community and authorities are now grappling with the consequences of this loss, which underscores the need for stronger support systems and awareness around the perils of gambling.
As this story unfolds, it serves as a somber reminder of the importance of addressing gambling addiction and providing avenues for those caught in its grip to seek help and reclaim control over their lives. The loss of Ranjitha is a poignant call to action for communities and families to remain vigilant and supportive of one another in facing financial and emotional crises.