BENGALURU: A BJP leader cum contractor, who had levelled corruption allegations against a Karnataka minister, was found dead. The body of Santhosh Patil (40) was found at a hotel room in Udupi, on Tuesday. The initial conclusion of the police is that it was a suicide.

Santhosh Patil had earlier raised allegations against BJP leader and Karnataka Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister K S Eshwarappa. Patil, who handles government contracts, had alleged that he was being mentally harassed by the minister. A road was constructed in May 2021 at Belagavi at a cost of Rs 4 crores. Even though he had submitted the bills, money was not paid. The minister had demanded 40 percent commission, but Patil was unable to pay him. Patil had written to the prime minister and Union Minister Giriraj Singh stating that he had incurred huge financial liabilities due to the non-receipt of funds. He had also approached BJP leaders regarding the issue. However, no action was taken.

Patil is also the national secretary of a right-wing group called Hindu Vahini. He had said that Eshwarappa should be held responsible if something happens to him. However, Eshwarappa rejected the allegations and said that he did not know Santhosh Patil.