Copyright newskarnataka
An argument over switching off lights at a workplace turned into a horrifying crime in west Bengaluru, when a 41-year-old employee was brutally murdered by his colleague in the early hours of Saturday Dispute over lights leads to shocking violence The incident occurred at a digital vault and photo-editing firm located near MC Layout in Govindarajnagar. The victim, Bheemesh Babu, hailed from Chitradurga and worked as a manager at the firm. The accused, Somala Vamshi, 24, a technical executive from Andhra Pradesh residing in Nayandahalli, was arrested after he surrendered at the Govindarajnagar police station. Police investigations revealed that Babu often asked his colleagues to turn off unnecessary lights as he was sensitive to bright lighting. On Friday night, around 1 am, Vamshi, who was still editing videos, reportedly got annoyed when Babu once again asked him to switch off the lights. Murder with a dumbbell after heated argument What began as a minor argument soon escalated into a violent confrontation. In a sudden fit of rage, Vamshi allegedly threw chilli powder at Babu before picking up an iron dumbbell from the office. He then bludgeoned Babu multiple times on the head, face and chest. Witnesses told police that the attack was so severe that Babu collapsed on the spot. Panic-stricken, Vamshi fled the scene and met his colleague, Gowri Prasad, in Nayandahalli. The two later returned to the office along with another friend to check on Babu’s condition. Victim declared dead at the scene Upon returning, they found Babu motionless. Prasad and his friend immediately called an ambulance, but the paramedics declared Babu dead on arrival. The trio then informed the police. The accused, overcome with guilt and fear, later surrendered at the Govindarajnagar police station. A case of murder has been registered against him under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. Police confirm motive and ongoing investigation According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Girish S, the murder was triggered by a disagreement over keeping lights on in the office. “Preliminary investigation confirms that the argument over lights led to the assault,” the DCP stated. The police have recovered the dumbbell used in the murder and recorded statements from witnesses and colleagues. The body of Bheemesh Babu has been sent for post-mortem, and further investigation is under way. A senseless act over a trivial issue The shocking incident has left both co-workers and residents in the area stunned. What began as a petty disagreement ended in a senseless act of violence, highlighting how unchecked anger can have irreversible consequences. Authorities have urged workplaces to foster better communication and mental health awareness to prevent such tragedies in the future
