Grief and questions: Family reflects on the life of Vikram Gowda

Udupi: The grieving sister of Vikram Gowda, who was killed in an encounter with ANF personnel on the night of November 18 expressed her emotion following her brother’s death.

Speaking tearfully, Suguna revealed that she and her family only learned of her brother’s death through TV and social media the next morning.

“We feared him when he was alive, and even now, after his death, we are still afraid,” said Suguna.

A troubled relationship

Vikram Gowda, who hailed from Nadpal in Koodlu, was the eldest of four siblings born to Gulabi and Venkayya. His family recalls that he was a bright and active child but had limited contact with them in later years. “I was close to him until I got married. After that, our communication dwindled,” Suguna said, adding that her brother distanced himself from the family years ago.

Limited education and path to Naxalism

Vikram studied only up to the fourth grade. He was described as a sociable and well-mannered individual during his childhood. However, his life took a turn when he allegedly became involved in the Karnataka Liberation Movement, which was active in the region at the time. Family members were frequently interrogated and even jailed on allegations of being associated with the movement, creating a climate of fear and suspicion.

Suguna shared that Vikram initially worked locally but gradually stopped coming home. “We don’t know how or when he chose the path of Naxalism. I haven’t seen him in over 21 years,” she said, standing at the threshold of her home, overwhelmed with tears.

Living in fear

The family’s encounters with the police added to their anxiety. “Officers from Kerala, Chikkamagaluru, and Udupi often came looking for him with notices. They would leave when we told them he wasn’t here,” Suguna explained.

Encounter and aftermath

Vikram Gowda was killed in a shootout with the Anti-Naxal Force, but his family expressed no intention to participate in his last rites. “The police killed him. We will not attend the funeral, and neither will our relatives. We are afraid for our safety, and there is no one to protect us,” Suguna stated.

The family, struggling with poverty, currently resides near a dilapidated house once occupied by Vikram. While they are constructing a new home, financial constraints have slowed progress.

Unanswered questions

Suguna and her family remain puzzled over how Vikram turned into a hardened Naxalite. “We only learned about him through TV and newspapers. We have no answers as to why he became so extreme,” she said.

This tragic chapter has left the family grappling with grief, fear, and lingering questions about the life and choices of a brother who drifted far from home.