BENGALURU: In a shocking incident that police suspect to be an attempted human sacrifice, a 55-year-old woman allegedly attacked her married daughter with a machete before a temple deity in northeastern Bengaluru early on Wednesday. The daughter, aged 25, suffered grievous injuries to her neck and is in critical condition at a private hospital, according to officials.
Early morning attack inside temple premises
The incident took place around 4.30am at the Harihareshwara Temple in Agrahara Layout, off Thanisandra Main Road. Police said the accused, Sarojamma, arrived at the temple with her daughter, Rekha, after the two had reportedly been performing special pujas related to Rekha’s marital issues.
After offering prayers, Sarojamma allegedly made Rekha sit in front of the deity. Without warning, she pulled out a machete and swung it at her daughter’s neck, inflicting deep wounds. Rekha’s screams alerted passersby, who rushed inside and managed to pull Sarojamma away before she could strike again.
A police team arrived shortly after and shifted the profusely bleeding Rekha to a nearby hospital, where doctors say her condition remains critical.
CCTV footage under review
Police confirmed that the entire incident was captured on CCTV cameras installed in the temple premises. Officers are reviewing the visuals to understand the sequence of events and the behaviour of both women prior to the assault.
“Both had come to the temple together, and their behaviour appears strange. We are verifying every detail captured on camera,” a police officer familiar with the probe said.
Sarojamma, who has been taken into custody, is reportedly refusing to cooperate fully with investigators. Police are awaiting Rekha’s recovery to record her statement, which will help establish motive and timeline.
Family tensions and alleged ritual advice
Rekha, married to Somashekar, a weaver from Anekal, had been facing frequent marital disputes. Officers said she often returned to her mother’s home in Sampigehalli, where Sarojamma lived with her 80-year-old father. The mother and daughter had been visiting temples and performing pujas in the hope of resolving Rekha’s marital troubles.
Investigators revealed that Sarojamma had recently consulted an astrologer. Initial information suggests the astrologer may have advised a ritual involving human sacrifice during a specific hour. This has become a key angle in the investigation.
Police are currently tracing the astrologer for questioning to determine the accuracy of the claim and whether he played any role in prompting the violent act.
Probe continues as victim battles for life
With Rekha in critical condition, investigators are piecing together statements from witnesses, analysing CCTV footage, and probing the alleged ritualistic angle. Officers said the seriousness of the attack points to premeditation rather than an impulsive assault.
Authorities are also examining whether Sarojamma was influenced by superstitious beliefs or coercion. Further enquiries will be conducted once Rekha is stable enough to speak.
Conclusion
The case has sparked concern over rising incidents linked to superstition and alleged ritualistic practices. Police said strict action would be taken against all individuals involved, including the astrologer if evidence confirms his role. More details are expected as the investigation progresses and doctors update Rekha’s condition.