Bengaluru: A woman and her alleged lover have been accused of murdering her five-year-old daughter in Bengaluru, with the case coming to light nearly three months after the child’s death following a complaint lodged by the girl’s father.
Police have arrested one of the accused and launched a search for the child’s mother, who is currently absconding. Investigators are also awaiting forensic reports as part of the ongoing probe into the case.
Child died in March under suspicious circumstances
The deceased child, identified as Vennila, reportedly died on March 24 while staying with her mother.
According to police, the girl’s father, Praveen, a native of Davanagere, later approached the authorities alleging that his wife Priyanka and her alleged lover Mohan were responsible for the child’s death.
Praveen and Priyanka were married in 2007 and have two daughters aged 17 and five years.
Investigators said Priyanka had allegedly reconnected with her former college friend Mohan a few years ago. The friendship reportedly developed into a close relationship, and the two were later said to be living together.
Police sources stated that disputes over the relationship had strained the marriage, with Priyanka reportedly seeking a divorce from her husband.
Conflicting explanations raised suspicion
After moving in with Mohan, Priyanka was reportedly living with the younger daughter.
Police said questions arose regarding the circumstances surrounding the child’s death after family members received differing explanations from Priyanka.
According to investigators, she allegedly told relatives on one occasion that she had fed the child biryani. On another occasion, she reportedly claimed that she had given the girl ice cream and left her sleeping in an air-conditioned car.
She later allegedly stated that the child was found dead the following morning after she returned home.
The varying accounts prompted concerns among family members about the actual cause of death.
Post-mortem report leads to complaint
Suspicion intensified after Praveen shared the post-mortem report with a relative working as a doctor abroad.
After reviewing the report, the relative reportedly pointed out observations that suggested the possibility of foul play.
Based on these findings, Praveen approached the police and lodged a complaint alleging that the child had been assaulted and suffocated to death.
The complaint led investigators to reopen the circumstances surrounding the death and initiate a detailed inquiry.
One accused arrested, search on for mother
Police have arrested Mohan in connection with the case and are questioning him as part of the investigation.
Priyanka, meanwhile, is currently on the run, and efforts are underway to trace and apprehend her.
Investigators said multiple teams have been deployed to locate the accused woman and gather further evidence related to the case.
Forensic report awaited
Police officials said the investigation is still at a crucial stage and that they are awaiting the findings of the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL).
The forensic report is expected to provide additional clarity regarding the cause and circumstances of the child’s death.
Officials have indicated that further legal action will be taken based on the forensic findings and evidence collected during the investigation.
The case has shocked residents and drawn attention due to the serious allegations surrounding the death of a young child. Police said the investigation remains ongoing and more details are expected to emerge as the probe progresses.