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A BJP worker, who had earlier been arrested on charges of allegedly making comments against Congress MLA A.S. Ponnanna, committed suicide on Friday.

Ponnanna is presently serving as Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's Legal Advisor.

It is said that the BJP worker was left greatly saddened by the shame after his arrest. The incident occurred in the early hours within the limits of the Hennur police station in Bengaluru.

The victim has been identified as 35-year-old Vinay Somaiah. He was found dead at the BJP party office in HBR Layout, where he had spent the night. Police sources said Vinay posted a death note in a WhatsApp group before ending his life.

In his note, he claimed that his action was due to what he termed as a politically motivated FIR against him.

Background of the Case
Vinay Somaiah, a resident of Kodagu district, was arrested two months ago on charges of making a comment about MLA Ponnanna. Though he did not make the comment himself, he was the administrator of the WhatsApp group where it was posted.

On the basis of a complaint by Congress worker Tennera Maina, the Madikeri police registered an FIR against three persons, including Vinay. After his arrest, he was granted bail, and later his family procured a stay on the investigation from the High Court.

In his last message, Vinay alleged that he had been humiliated and distressed despite being innocent. He said that the experience had badly affected his dignity and self-respect.

Political Consequences
Vinay leaves behind his parents, wife, and child. Besides his political life, he was an operations manager for a private company.

After his death, BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra has been updated on the case. Party sources reveal that BJP leaders are scheduling a protest against Congress MLA A.S. Ponnanna and the Chief Minister's Legal Advisor in the coming days.

More information about the incident is expected to come up as investigations progress.