The terrifying ordeal unfolded in a forest in Chikkaballapur district, where her kidnappers placed her in a shallow pit, covered her with branches, and left, believing she was no longer alive. The assailants fled the scene, taking her cash and jewellery.
After they left, Archana used her strength to climb out of the pit and made her way to a nearby police station, where she filed a complaint. The Chikkaballapur police revealed that the motive for her kidnapping stemmed from a personal vendetta. Archana was allegedly targeted due to her suspected relationship with Santosh, a friend of her husband. Santosh’s wife, Bindu, became suspicious and, believing there was an affair, allegedly plotted Archana’s murder. Bindu reportedly hired Satheesh Reddy, a man with a criminal record, to execute the plan.
Satheesh, posing as a potential yoga student, befriended Archana to gain her trust. Once she agreed to meet him, he, along with three accomplices—Nagendra Reddy, Ramana Reddy, and Ravi—kidnapped her, assaulted her in his vehicle, and then took her to the forest to carry out the attack.
Following Archana’s report, the police swiftly arrested the five accused and recovered the stolen valuables. Chikkaballapur Superintendent of Police, DL Nagesh, confirmed the arrests and stated, “On October 24, we received a complaint from Archana about kidnap, assault, and an attempt on her life. Bindu had allegedly hired Satheesh Reddy, who posed as a detective. All accused have been arrested.”
Archana’s incredible escape has left the community in shock, highlighting her resilience and presence of mind in the face of grave danger. The case remains under further investigation.