Four-Year-Old Injured as Plantation Owner Allegedly Fires Pellets During Wage Dispute in Mudigere
A four-year-old boy, the son of a migrant worker from Assam, was injured by pellets when a plantation owner allegedly opened fire during a heated argument over wages in Balehalli village, Mudigere taluk, on Friday (July 25, 2026).
The incident occurred when the plantation owner, identified as Jagadish, and his brother, Prabhakar Gowda, allegedly argued with a group of workers from Assam over wage demands. The workers had demanded ₹400 per day, but Jagadish reportedly offered ₹350 per day, promising to clear the remaining dues later. As the argument escalated, Prabhakar Gowda allegedly took out a country-made gun and fired pellets, which struck the child who was nearby.
The injured child was initially taken to the Government Hospital in Mudigere and later shifted to Mangaluru for further treatment. According to police, the child is out of danger, and the pellets have been successfully removed.
Mudigere police have registered a case against Jagadish and Prabhakar Gowda under relevant sections of the law. Both accused are currently absconding. Police confirmed that the gun used in the incident was licensed.
The incident highlights the ongoing issues of wage disputes and safety concerns for migrant workers in the region. Authorities have urged calm and assured a thorough investigation.
