A 34-year-old home guard was allegedly murdered by her husband in Mahadevapura after prolonged family disputes triggered by his online betting addiction and mounting financial losses.
The victim, identified as Manjula, was allegedly stabbed to death by her husband Pradeep, 38, an autorickshaw driver, on Sunday evening. Police said the accused had accumulated debts running into several lakhs of rupees after losing money on online betting platforms.
Investigators revealed that the couple had been facing frequent conflicts over Pradeep’s gambling habit, which had severely affected the family’s finances and relationships.
Months of tension before the fatal attack
According to police, Manjula had been staying with her parents in Udaya Nagar for the past few weeks after allegedly facing harassment from her husband. Family members said Pradeep had also sold her gold ornaments about a month ago, further straining their relationship.
Despite repeated requests from Pradeep to return home, Manjula reportedly refused and chose to remain with her parents.
Before the incident, Pradeep allegedly recorded a video message expressing regret over his betting addiction and acknowledging the distress it had caused his family.
Attack witnessed by family members
Police said Pradeep spent several hours searching for Manjula before arriving at her parents’ residence. He reportedly pleaded with her to return home, but when she declined, he allegedly attacked her with a knife he had concealed in his jacket.
Manjula sustained multiple stab injuries and collapsed at the scene. She was declared dead shortly afterwards.
The incident was witnessed by her mother and children, who immediately alerted the police.
Accused arrested after failed suicide bid
Following the attack, Pradeep allegedly attempted to take his own life by slashing his wrist. However, he survived and was taken to hospital for treatment.
Mahadevapura police arrested the accused and later produced him before a court, which remanded him to judicial custody.
Police said further investigation is under way.
The incident has once again highlighted growing concerns over the devastating impact of online betting addiction on individuals and families, with experts warning that unchecked gambling habits can lead to severe financial, emotional and social consequences.