A constable of the Karnataka Police allegedly killed his wife in Bengaluru after suspecting her of having an affair. The victim, who had recently given birth, was strangled by her husband. He then attempted suicide by consuming pesticide. The husband has been charged with dowry harassment and murder. The Indian Express reported
A tragic incident unfolded in Hoskote, on the outskirts of Bengaluru, where a constable of the Karnataka Police allegedly killed his wife and attempted to commit suicide. The victim, identified as 24-year-old Pratibha, had recently given birth to a baby boy and was staying at her maternal home due to her pregnancy.
According to a police officer, the constable, Kishore, had suspected his wife of having an affair and would frequently check her messages and call details. He had even confronted her about it in the past. Kishore had a particular issue with Pratibha talking to her male college friends, and their last argument over the phone had occurred the day before the incident. Pratibha disconnected the call to avoid stress, as per her mother’s advice, but didn’t answer Kishore’s subsequent calls.
On Monday, Kishore, who was in Chamarajanagar, went to Pratibha’s residence in Hoskote when her parents were not present. An argument broke out, leading to Kishore strangling Pratibha to death. Afterward, Kishore consumed pesticide in an attempt to end his own life. When Pratibha’s mother arrived and knocked on the door, Kishore initially did not respond. However, after 15 minutes, he opened the door, confessed to the crime, and fled the scene. He later sought medical attention at R L Jalappa hospital in Kolar and was transferred to another hospital.
Pratibha, an engineering graduate, is the daughter of Subramani, the secretary of the Bettahalasur gram panchayat. She had married Kishore, a resident of Kolar district, in November 2022. The Hoskote police have filed charges of dowry harassment and murder against Kishore. Once he recovers, the police will take him into custody.
This tragic incident highlights the devastating consequences of suspicion and lack of trust within a relationship. The alleged infidelity accusations and constant monitoring of Pratibha’s communication contributed to a toxic environment that ultimately led to her untimely death. The investigation will delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding the case and seek justice for the victim and her newborn child..