A TRAGIC DEATH: FORMER IACR CHIEF FOUND DEAD IN CAUVERY RIVER NEAR MYSURU
Dr. Subbanna Ayyappan, an agriculture scientist and former chief of Indian Council of Agriculture and Research (ICAR) and widely acknowledged as a principal architect of India's 'Blue Revolution' was tragically found dead in the Cauvery River, near Srirangapatna, approximately 20 kilometers from Mysuru on Saturday.
His body was found floating in the river which was discovered by the members of the locality. Later his body was retrieved by the officials and the body was sent for further investigation. This incident has raised serious questions in everyone's mind and prompted for criminal investigation.
Timeline of the events that took place according to reports
Dr. Ayyappan was reportedly last seen by the locals on the Srirangapatna Bridge.
His body was found floating in the Cauvery River discovered by the localities who informed the police.
The body was retrieved from the river and a case on unnatural death was registered.
Background of the case
Dr. Ayyappan was a 70-year-old Padmashree Awardee who was renowned for being the first non-crop scientist to head ICAR. He has significantly contributed in the growth and research of India's agricultural research and development. His leadership and knowledge also earned him the Padma shri, one of India's highest civilian honors. His death is a huge loss to the scientific and agricultural industry.
Current findings and the ongoing investigation
The exact reason of death is yet to be determined according to the reports but according to sources the body was said to be dead three days before it was identified. It is suspected that the body entered the water possibly near the Sai baba ashram where he used to frequently visit to meditate.
When the body was found floating, it was retrieved and was identified as Subbanna and was shifted to KR hospital, Mysuru. A post-mortem examination was conducted after which the body was handed over to the family.
Post-mortem and ante-mortem rule outs
A detailed autopsy was conducted at the forensic medicine department of Mysuru Medical College under the supervision of a forensic panel. According to the reports the post mortem COD is said to be asphyxia due to drowning and also diatoms were found in the liver matching samples from Cauvery River.
Whereas, the ante-mortem findings showcased a mild subdural hemorrhage and linear abrasions over both shins. However, neither evidence is concluding yet and the investigation is ongoing according to the police reports.
Questions to ponder: a tragic death leading to points for reflection
- What could be the reason for death? An accident, a revenge or lapse in security of high-profile personalities?
- How did a man of public importance go unsupervised near a dangerous water body?
- Could there be any professional or personal threats that leads to this incident?
- How well are the forensic-protocols being followed in the investigation of such high profile case.
While the answers for all these questions is the justified investigation to the death of Dr. Subbanna Ayyappa. The mysterious loss of a gem of agricultural industry deeply saddens everyone's heart. This case is not just a case but a moment for the nation to pause, reflect and question.
