YouTuber attempts self-harm on Facebook Live alleging police harassment over journalistic work

A YouTuber attempted to take his own life during a Facebook Live session, alleging continuous harassment by Superintendent of Police and other police officials of Bidar district in Karnataka, on April 2.

The individual, Salman Khan, runs the YouTube channel ‘Media in Truth’. He is receiving treatment at Bidar Institute of Medical Sciences (BRIMS) hospital. His condition was reported to be critical on April 2 night.

Allegations against SP

During the live broadcast, Mr. Khan claimed that SP Pradeep Gunti and other senior police officials were targeting him for his journalistic work. According to Mr. Khan, the harassment escalated after he posted videos concerning the police department.

Mr. Khan claimed that he was summoned to the SP’s office under the pretext of a ‘peace meeting’, where he was allegedly assaulted and humiliated in front of others. He alleged that officials pressured him to delete specific videos, and demanded he shut down his YouTube channel.

He accused the SP of stifling the truth and misusing his position to harass not only media personnel but also common citizens. The YouTuber claimed the SP threatened him with a ‘staged encounter’, and was allegedly attempting to file false cases against him.

In the video, Mr. Khan broke down in tears, appealing for his message to reach Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar. Before consuming several tablets on camera, he made an emotional request to people to take care of his family.

(Those in distress or having suicidal tendencies could seek help and counselling by calling Arogya Sahayavani – 104)