FAMILY HONOUR TURNS FATAL: TRAGIC MURDER IN KARNATAKA OVER HIV STIGMA

In a chilling incident from Karnataka’s Chitradurga district, a 23-year-old man named Mallikarjun was allegedly murdered by his sister Nisha and her husband Manjunath. The couple reportedly committed the crime fearing that Mallikarjun’s HIV-positive status would tarnish their family’s reputation in the community. The case has sent shockwaves across the state, reigniting concerns about the persistent stigma surrounding HIV.

According to police sources, Mallikarjun had been living with his sister and brother-in-law for the past few months. It is believed that he had disclosed his HIV status to them, which led to growing tension within the household. Nisha and Manjunath allegedly felt that if the news became public, it would bring shame upon their family and affect their social standing in the conservative rural society.

On the day of the incident, police believe the couple conspired to eliminate Mallikarjun. Initial investigations revealed that the victim was strangled to death and his body was disposed of in an attempt to cover up the murder. The couple later tried to mislead the police by claiming Mallikarjun had left the house on his own and had not returned.

However, inconsistencies in their statements raised suspicions. Upon further questioning, both Nisha and Manjunath reportedly confessed to the crime. The police have since arrested them and charged them with murder and destruction of evidence. The case is currently under judicial review, and a trial is expected to begin soon.

The incident has sparked a debate across social media and among human rights groups, who have condemned the act and highlighted the damaging consequences of HIV stigma. Activists stress that lack of awareness and deeply ingrained societal prejudices often lead to such tragic outcomes. They argue that people living with HIV deserve compassion and care, not discrimination and violence.

Mallikarjun’s death is a stark reminder of the urgent need for widespread education on HIV and AIDS in rural India. Despite decades of awareness campaigns, myths and misinformation still dominate public perception. Many people fear social exclusion, job loss, or even violence if their HIV status becomes known, leading to a culture of silence and fear.

Health experts also emphasize that with modern medication, HIV-positive individuals can lead long, healthy lives. The virus is no longer a death sentence, but the social stigma attached to it can be. The Chitradurga incident exemplifies how the lack of understanding and empathy can escalate into irreversible tragedy.

Authorities have promised a fair investigation and strict punishment for the accused. Meanwhile, the community is left grappling with the reality that misplaced ideas of “honour” and ignorance led to the loss of a young life one that could have been supported instead of silenced.