Youth attempts suicide after being humiliated in public for wearing ripped jeans in Belthangady

A 21-year-old youth, humiliated in public for wearing ripped-style jeans, attempted suicide on Friday evening after a video of the incident went viral on social media.

The victim, identified as Shahil, son of Muhammad Hayif from Panakaje, Belthangady, is currently undergoing treatment in critical condition at a hospital in Mangaluru.

On November 21, Shahil visited the Santakatte Market in Belthangady wearing a modern, ripped jeans design. A group of three individuals reportedly targeted him for his attire. They forcibly restrained him, locked his arms behind his back, and used a jute sack needle to mock-stitch his jeans while recording the act on a mobile phone.

The accused, identified as Shabeer from Putherbailu, Aneesh Panakaje, and Saleem from Adarsha Nagar in Laila village, allegedly circulated the video on social media, leading to widespread trolling of Shahil.

Upon learning about the viral video, Shahil’s friends shared it with him. Overwhelmed by the humiliation, he consumed a poisonous substance at his home on the evening of November 21. His family rushed him to the Belthangady Taluk Hospital, where he received initial treatment before being shifted to a Mangaluru hospital due to his critical condition.

The incident has sparked outrage among locals, with many demanding strict action against the accused for their inhumane behavior. The video, which continues to circulate on social media, has drawn widespread condemnation.

Authorities have been urged to take stringent measures against the perpetrators to prevent such incidents in the future. The investigation is underway.