The investigation into the death of six-year-old P. Vennela has taken a fresh turn, with Bengaluru police considering a polygraph test on the accused as they attempt to resolve inconsistencies in their statements and reconstruct the events leading to the child’s death.

Vennela, the daughter of separated couple Praveen and Priyanka, was taken to a private hospital in Whitefield on the morning of March 24 by her mother and her mother’s friend, Mohan M.G. Doctors declared the child brought dead upon arrival.

Initial claim questioned

According to police, Priyanka initially stated that Vennela had been sleeping inside a parked car with its windows closed and had died due to suffocation.

However, questions were later raised regarding the circumstances surrounding the child’s death. Vennela’s father, Praveen, an educationist from Davanagere, reportedly shared the post-mortem report with his sister, a child specialist based in England. The report was subsequently brought to the attention of a senior police officer, leading to further scrutiny of the case.

Based on these developments, Praveen filed a murder complaint against Priyanka and Mohan earlier this month.

Police examining contradictions

Investigators said they are closely examining the statements of both accused and have been questioning them extensively to establish the sequence of events.

According to police sources, Mohan has allegedly admitted to elbowing the child after she spilled ice cream. Investigators are also examining claims that he covered the child’s mouth while she was crying.

Police officials said they are seeking to understand the exact circumstances that led to the child’s death and whether crucial information has been withheld during questioning.

Polygraph test under consideration

A senior police officer said a decision on conducting a polygraph test would depend on the outcome of the ongoing interrogation.

“If investigators find that the accused are withholding information or providing contradictory statements, a polygraph examination may be considered as part of the investigation,” the officer said.

Meanwhile, a local court has extended the police custody of the accused to facilitate further questioning.

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are awaiting additional forensic and evidentiary findings before drawing final conclusions