Thiruvananthapuram: Hridhik (28), a native of Vanchiyoor who was attacked by his father with a metal rod, succumbed to his injuries on Monday after a month of treatment. Following his death, the charge against his father has been changed from attempted murder to murder. Vinayanand (60), who was out on bail, will be arrested, Vanchiyoor Police told Onmanorama.

The incident took place on October 9, around 12.30 pm at their residence in Thoppil Lane. According to the FIR, an argument broke out after Hridhik allegedly demanded ₹50 lakh from his father, who owns a café in the city, to buy a motorcycle and a car. During the altercation, the accused struck Hridhik with a metal rod, causing critical head injuries.

Hridhik had been undergoing treatment at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital. “The son, who was reportedly obsessed with bikes, frequently demanded money to purchase new ones. Though no formal complaints had been filed earlier, neighbours often heard arguments at night. He was also receiving treatment for mental health issues,” a Vanchiyoor police officer said. Hridhik, who lives with his parents and is pursuing an online MBA, had reportedly been gifted a ₹12 lakh bike in June.

Police said the father later claimed he acted in self-defence. According to them, the dispute escalated when the son insisted again on receiving ₹50 lakh for a luxury vehicle. “When his parents refused, he began fighting with them,” Vanchiyoor police said.

“According to the father, the son beat him and started choking him. In an act of self-defence, he struck Hridhik with the first object he could reach,” the police added.