Kolhapur: A murder investigation has been launched in Kolhapur after the body of a 45-year-old man was discovered near the base of Jotiba Temple hill on Saturday. The body, hidden in nearby bushes, was found by a temple visitor.

Police confirmed that the victim had a rope tightly wound around his neck, folded arms, and cloth stuffed in his mouth—strong indicators of foul play. The preliminary autopsy report pointed to asphyxiation due to strangulation as the likely cause of death. Medical experts also estimate the man died one to two days prior to the discovery.

“We have shared photographs of the deceased to help with identification,” said Kailas Kodag, Assistant Police Inspector of Kodoli station. Efforts are ongoing to trace the victim’s identity and determine the circumstances behind the crime.

The incident has raised alarm in the area, especially among devotees and locals visiting the sacred site.

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