Karnataka doctor murder propofol has sent shockwaves through the state after a debt‑ridden Ayurvedic practitioner, Dr. G.P. Mallesh, allegedly used a lethal dose of the anesthetic drug propofol to kill his 78‑year‑old uncle Chandranna and 75‑year‑old aunt Jayamma in Shivamogga district. The doctor is accused of stealing 80 grams of gold ornaments and attempting to clear a Rs 15 lakh loan that his uncle had refused to grant.
Background/Context
Propofol is a potent, short‑acting anesthetic used exclusively in operating theatres and intensive care units under strict medical supervision. It is a scheduled drug, and its misuse is a serious offence under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. The case is unusual because the alleged perpetrator was not a surgical anesthetist but an Ayurvedic doctor who had treated the victims for years. The incident highlights growing concerns about the misuse of prescription drugs and the vulnerability of elderly patients in rural India.
Shivamogga, a district in Karnataka’s western region, has seen a rise in cases of elder abuse and financial exploitation. According to the Karnataka State Police, there were 12 reported incidents of elder abuse in the past year, with 4 involving the use of prescription medication. This case is the first to involve a professional medical practitioner using a controlled drug to commit murder.
Key Developments
On Monday, Dr. Mallesh visited the couple’s home in Bhutanagudi, a small hamlet in Bhadravathi taluk, under the pretext of treating Chandranna’s varicose veins. He allegedly administered an overdose of propofol, causing a sudden drop in blood pressure. The couple died between 12:45 pm and 1:00 pm, according to police statements. The doctor then repeated the same procedure on Jayamma, who also succumbed to the drug.
After the murders, Mallesh reportedly stole 80 grams of gold jewellery from the house, pawned it, and transferred Rs 50,000 to his personal account. He fled to his hometown of Holehonnur, 15 km away, where he was later apprehended by Shivamogga district police on Wednesday.
Police Superintendent B. Nikhil stated, “We are probing the source of the propofol. The drug is not sold over the counter, and its presence in a private residence raises serious questions about supply chain security.”
Key facts:
- Victims: Chandranna (78) and Jayamma (75)
- Accused: Dr. G.P. Mallesh, Ayurvedic practitioner, unmarried
- Location: Bhutanagudi, Bhadravathi taluk, Shivamogga district
- Drug used: Propofol (scheduled, anesthetic)
- Gold stolen: 80 grams
- Loan requested: Rs 15 lakh (refused)
- Arrest: Wednesday, Shivamogga district police
Impact Analysis
For the local community, the case underscores the need for vigilance among families caring for elderly relatives. The use of a medically supervised drug in a domestic setting raises alarm about potential abuse of prescription medication. The incident also highlights the financial pressures that can drive individuals to extreme measures, especially in rural areas where access to credit is limited.
From a legal perspective, the case may prompt stricter enforcement of drug control laws. The Karnataka State Drug Control Board has already announced plans to conduct random audits of pharmacies and private practitioners to ensure compliance with the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
For students and young professionals in the medical field, the case serves as a stark reminder of the ethical responsibilities that come with medical practice. The misuse of a controlled substance not only violates legal statutes but also erodes public trust in healthcare providers.
Expert Insights/Tips
Dr. R. K. Sharma, a forensic toxicologist at the National Institute of Medical Sciences, explained the mechanics of propofol poisoning: “Propofol acts on the GABA receptors in the brain, producing rapid sedation. In overdose, it can cause profound hypotension and respiratory depression, leading to death within minutes if not promptly treated.”
He advised families to:
- Maintain a log of all medications administered to elderly relatives.
- Verify the source of prescription drugs, especially if they are not commonly used in outpatient settings.
- Seek a second opinion if a treatment plan seems unusually aggressive or costly.
- Report any suspicious activity to local authorities immediately.
Legal counsel, Advocate S. N. Patel, emphasized the importance of documentation: “In cases of elder abuse, written records of medical visits, prescriptions, and financial transactions can be crucial evidence. Families should keep copies of all medical bills and receipts.”
Looking Ahead
The investigation is ongoing, with police focusing on tracing the source of the propofol and identifying any accomplices. The Karnataka State Police have requested cooperation from the Karnataka State Drug Control Board and the local pharmacy association to conduct a comprehensive audit of drug distribution in the region.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka government has announced a new initiative to strengthen elder protection laws. The proposed legislation would increase penalties for elder abuse and establish a dedicated helpline for reporting such incidents. The government also plans to launch a public awareness campaign on the risks of prescription drug misuse.
For the medical community, the case may lead to stricter licensing requirements for practitioners who handle controlled substances. The Karnataka Medical Council is reportedly reviewing its guidelines to ensure that only qualified professionals are authorized to prescribe and administer anesthetic agents.
In the broader context, the incident reflects a growing trend of drug‑related crimes in India. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, drug‑related offenses increased by 12% in 2025, with a significant rise in cases involving prescription medication.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains on edge, hoping for swift justice and stronger safeguards to protect vulnerable populations.
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