Bengaluru: A 19-year-old woman allegedly died by suicide at her lover’s house in Pillahalli village near Nelamangala on Monday evening, following an argument over the timing of their marriage. The deceased has been identified as Nikhita J, a native of Arasikere in Hassan district. The incident has triggered allegations from her family that her lover was responsible for her death, prompting police to take him into custody for questioning.
According to the police, Nikhita had come to Bengaluru on January 1 to meet her lover, Raghavendra, 24, a daily wage worker residing in Pillahalli village, which falls under the limits of Madanayakanahalli police station. The two had known each other for a few years after being introduced through a mutual friend, and their acquaintance later developed into a romantic relationship.
Relationship and plans for marriage
Police said Nikhita and Raghavendra had been meeting frequently over the past few years and were in a serious relationship. During the course of their relationship, discussions regarding marriage had reportedly taken place between the couple.
Investigators stated that Nikhita was keen on formalising the relationship and had been insisting that the marriage take place at the earliest. On the other hand, Raghavendra allegedly asked her to wait for an auspicious date, suggesting that the wedding be postponed by about a month.
This difference of opinion reportedly led to an argument between the two on Monday.
Argument precedes tragic incident
According to preliminary information shared by the police, the disagreement intensified after Nikhita insisted that Raghavendra marry her on Tuesday. Raghavendra is said to have refused, reiterating his request to wait for a more auspicious time.
Upset by the argument and the delay in marriage, Nikhita allegedly became distressed. Police said that later in the day, she called her family members and spoke about her intention to end her life.
Family members reportedly tried to counsel her over the phone and urged her to remain calm. However, before they could reach her or alert local authorities, the young woman is said to have taken the extreme step at Raghavendra’s house.
Case registered by police
After being informed about the incident, the Madanayakanahalli police rushed to the spot and shifted the body for post-mortem examination. A case of unnatural death has been registered, and further investigation is underway to ascertain the exact circumstances that led to the incident.
Police officials said there were no immediate signs of external injuries, and the exact cause of death would be confirmed after the post-mortem report is received.
Parents allege abetment
Nikhita’s parents have alleged that Raghavendra was responsible for their daughter’s death. Based on their complaint, police have taken Raghavendra into custody for questioning.
A senior police officer said that Raghavendra was being interrogated to understand the nature of the relationship, the events that transpired on the day of the incident, and whether there was any abetment involved.
“At this stage, a case of unnatural death has been registered. We are questioning the man based on the allegations made by the victim’s family. Further legal sections will be added if evidence points towards abetment to suicide,” the officer said.
Investigation continues
Police are recording statements from family members, neighbours and others who may have interacted with the couple in recent days. They are also examining call records to verify the conversations Nikhita reportedly had with her family before her death.
Officials said the investigation would focus on whether the dispute over marriage alone led to the incident or if there were other factors that contributed to her extreme decision.
Conclusion
The death of Nikhita J has once again brought attention to the emotional distress faced by young individuals in relationships, particularly when expectations and decisions around marriage clash. As the Madanayakanahalli police continue their investigation, the case underscores the importance of addressing relationship conflicts with sensitivity and timely support. Authorities have urged families and communities to seek help and intervention at early stages to prevent such tragic outcomes.
