Tiruchi Woman Dies by Suicide After Alleged Assault Over Election Gifts; Six Arrested

A 25-year-old woman, Sindhuja, died by suicide in Tiruchi district, Tamil Nadu, following an alleged assault linked to the distribution of election gifts. On April 13, 2026, a group reportedly distributing items on behalf of DMK functionaries denied her request, stating gifts were reserved for party associates. When Sindhuja objected and threatened to report the incident to the candidate, the group allegedly dragged, verbally abused, and beat her. The next day, after an argument with her husband regarding the assault, she locked herself in a room and ended her life. Police have arrested six individuals, including Raja and Rajendran, while searching for three others. Charges include provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Representation of the People Act. The incident has sparked political condemnation, with BJP leader K. Annamalai and TVK leader Vijay criticizing the alleged bribery and violence. Family members briefly blocked a road demanding justice. This case highlights tensions surrounding electoral malpractices and voter inducements during the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.