Another monk ends life in Mumbai

A Buddhist monk allegedly ended his life consuming poison in Deonar on Friday, just a few metres from the residence of Buddhist Monk Bhante Sangaraj Mathero whose body was found under 8220;suspicious8221; circumstances two weeks ago. The monk, identified as Bhante Kashyap 40 of Nilanga village in Latur, was declared dead at 5.40 pm at Sion Hospital.

In a press note, the police relased excerpts of the monk8217;s suicide note. 8220;Strict action should be taken against the accused in the Bante Sanghraj Mathero case. Such a crime should not be repeated and the monks should get justice. I am committing suicide for this cause.8221; Kashyap was one of the strong followers of the monk Sangaraj Mathero, whose death is now being investigated by the police.

According to the police, Kashyap came here on Friday morning from Latur. His ten-year-old son and brother are on their way to Mumbai to confirm his identity and decide on last rites.

Security in areas around Deonar and Govandi and adjoining areas were beefed up immediately after the monk8217;s death. Appealing to people to maintain calm, RPI leader Ramdas Athavale said, 8220;We are deeply hurt by the death. We hope the police will do their job well. We are asking R R Patil to ensure a clean inquiry. Meanwhile, people should remain calm.8221;