Four members of a family in Ananthpur village of Belagavi district and five others from different States who had announced “sacrificing their lives” reportedly under the influence of a “cult guru” have been convinced by another seer and officials to withdraw their decision.

The announcement made by Tukaram Irakar, his wife Savitri, son Ramesh and daughter-in-law Vaishnavi from Ananthpur in Athani taluk of Belagavi district and five others that they would sacrifice their lives on September 8. They were reportedly followers of a cult guru named “Baba Rampal” of Haryana and inspired by his discourse, wanted to end their lives as they believed that “Baba” would help them get salvation.

On getting information Assistant Commissioner of Chikkodi Subhash Sampagavi and Amareshwar Maharaj of Kavalagudda visited the village on Saturday and managed to convince the family and five others from carrying out their announcement. They were informed that “Baba Rampal” was in police custory and after counselling they decided to change their decision. They were accompanied by police officials, who also requested them not to believe in superstitions.