Kurubara Suresh, from Basavanahalli in Karnataka’s Kodagu district, was arrested in 2021 and spent nearly 18 months behind bars after skeletal remains, mistaken for his wife Mallige, were found. He was accused under Sections 302, 498A and 201 for her alleged murder. Although initial forensic reports didn’t match the remains to Mallige, police proceeded with charges.

In April 2025, Mallige unexpectedly surfaced in Madikeri, alive and unhurt, prompting her to appear in court and resulting in Suresh’s acquittal with full honors. The Sessions Court ordered the state to pay him ₹1 lakh in compensation and initiate disciplinary action against Inspector Prakash BG for fabrication of evidence. 

Unconvinced by the token amount, Suresh has filed a criminal appeal in the Karnataka High Court seeking ₹5 crore in damages. He demands criminal proceedings against all five officers involved, not just one, and wants official recognition as a “victim” instead of an “accused.” His petition argues that he lost years of his life, endured mental trauma, and suffered dignity and reputation loss. 

The High Court is expected to review the petition soon, taking into account its implications for police accountability and justice for the wrongfully accused.