Candlelight Vigil in Bengaluru: A Heartfelt Tribute to Techie Atul Subhash. In Bengaluru, a somber candlelight vigil took place on Thursday evening to honor the memory of Atul Subhash, a 34-year-old tech professional whose tragic death by suicide earlier this week has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice. The event, organized by a local NGO and supported by concerned citizens, shed light on the emotional and societal challenges faced by men in distress.
A Community United in Grief
The vigil, held at Eco Space, brought together dozens of participants, each holding candles, mobile flashlights, and photographs of Subhash. United in their grief, attendees chanted slogans like “We Want Justice” to demand accountability and draw attention to the circumstances surrounding Subhash’s death. The techie was found hanging at his residence in Marathahalli on Monday, leaving behind a 24-page note that detailed his struggles with marital discord and alleged harassment.
The Role of ‘Save Indian Family Foundation’
Sajeet, a member of the NGO Save Indian Family Foundation—a group advocating for men’s rights—expressed profound sorrow over Subhash’s untimely demise. “Atul Subhash’s death is a tragic reminder of the pressures men face in false legal cases and the lack of judicial support,” he stated. “This vigil is not only a tribute to him but also a call to raise awareness about the injustices faced by men in similar situations.”
The foundation, along with its supporters, has demanded that Subhash’s wife, Nikita Singhania, be terminated from her job at a reputed tech firm. Protesters pointed out that in cases where women are victims, swift action is often taken, while men in distress face systemic neglect.
A Friend’s Painful Testimony
Among the attendees was Narsingh, a close friend of Subhash and a volunteer with the foundation, who shared his personal struggles. “I have been fighting a legal battle since 2020,” he said. “I’ve only seen my son twice, and one of those times was at a police station. I’ve been alienated from my family and asked for an exorbitant settlement to close false cases filed against me. Atul’s plight resonates with me deeply, as our struggles are ignored by the system.”
The Allegations and Police Investigation
Police reports indicate that Subhash’s death note detailed extensive harassment from his wife, Nikita Singhania, and her family members, including her mother, brother-in-law, and uncle. The note also mentioned a judge in Uttar Pradesh, alleging judicial bias and emotional distress stemming from prolonged legal battles. Subhash and Nikita, who married in 2019, had been entangled in disputes that reportedly escalated into multiple court cases. The couple welcomed a son in 2020, but their relationship continued to deteriorate.
Authorities have filed an abetment of suicide case against Nikita and her family. The investigation is ongoing, with Subhash’s detailed death note serving as a critical piece of evidence. The note, which he shared with members of the NGO via WhatsApp before his death, has amplified calls for systemic reform to address the grievances of men facing similar predicaments.
Calls for Systemic Change
The tragic story of Atul Subhash has reignited debates around men’s rights and the legal challenges they face in marital disputes. Advocates argue that societal and legal systems are often skewed against men, leaving them isolated and vulnerable. Protesters at the vigil highlighted the urgent need for policy reforms and mechanisms to address false accusations and ensure fair treatment for all individuals, regardless of gender.
A Legacy of Awareness
Subhash’s death has left an indelible mark on Bengaluru’s tech community and beyond. His story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health support, legal fairness, and social acknowledgment of the struggles faced by men in distress. As investigations continue, the hope remains that his case will lead to meaningful change and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The candlelight vigil, a poignant gesture of solidarity, stands as a testament to the power of community in amplifying the voices of the unheard.
