Bangalore, the suicide capital of India

Bangalore, Apr 3: Known as the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore is no exception to the ravages of urbanization.

The fast track city averages almost 2000 suicide deaths annually, topping the list in the country. Consultant neuro-psychiatrist at the Apollo Hospital in Bangalore, Dr Sudhir Hebbar, blames changing lifestyles and urbanization for the increase in the number of suicides in Bangalore. According to statistics available with the city's crime bureau, over 7840 people (4845 male and 2995 female) in the age group of 15 to 35 committed suicide in Bangalore between 2004 and 2008. Crime Branch Inspector Girija, who has been handling suicide cases in Bangalore, says growing urbanization is the culprit. Girija said: "Love failures, exam stress are some of the other main causesor young people taking the extreme step".

"The IT city has become the victim of consequences of globalization. Looking at the data, Bangalore has become the suicide capital of the country and it is important to de-stress the society from the rat race", said Gopal B Hosur, Joint Commissioner of Police, Bangalore.

ANI