Civic worker dies at rehab centre in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: A 30-year-old pourakarmika died under suspicious circumstances at a rehabilitation centre in Kengeri, with family members alleging the staff assaulted him in front of his nephew and other relatives.

The deceased, Ramesh, a resident of Gavipuram in south Bengaluru, was a chronic alcoholic. His family had admitted him to Poornapragna Rehab Foundation two months ago. His nephew, Ajay, and two other relatives were admitted to the same rehab centre.

Ajay alleged that on Sunday, the rehab centre staff assaulted Ramesh over a trivial issue. He claimed Ramesh was beaten on the chest and legs using pipes.

The rehab centre employees allegedly informed the family that Ramesh had complained of chest pain and was being shifted to a hospital early Monday. However, they later claimed he died on the way to hospital.

Police said Ramesh had complained of chest pain Sunday evening, which was allegedly neglected by the staff as they suspected he was making excuses to get out of the centre. Later at night, they gave him a gastric tablet, and when he felt uneasy in the early hours, they rushed him to the hospital.

A case of causing death by negligence has been registered against rehab owner Prakash and others.