Madikeri prison clash leaves inmate critical

Madikeri: A clash between two inmates at Madikeri District Prison on Monday left a 25-year-old critically injured.

The victim, who suffered multiple stab wounds, has been admitted to a hospital in Mysuru for treatment.

According to the FIR registered at the Madikeri Rural police station, the incident occurred around 7.58am near the water tank located outside the prison’s kitchen area. The accused, Rajesh LS, 46, allegedly attacked Hemanth, 25, with a knife. Prison rules permit inmates to step out of their dorm between 6.45am and 8am daily for prayers or exercise, the authorities said.

Rajesh allegedly stabbed Hemanth multiple times. Hemanth sustained severe injuries to his chest and stomach. Rajesh also sustained head injuries during the fight, the authorities said.

Both the inmates were rushed to the District Hospital in Madikeri. Following first-aid, Hemanth was shifted to a hospital in Mysuru.

The two are relatives who share a history of enmity and have filed legal cases against each other, police said.

Rajesh has been in judicial custody in connection with an attempt-to-murder case, while Hemanth was jailed in May on assault charges. Madikeri Rural police have initiated an investigation into the case.