A 24-year-old newlywed woman allegedly died by suicide in Mauganj, Madhya Pradesh, on December 24, with a detailed suicide note accusing her husband and mother-in-law of sustained harassment and dowry-related abuse.

Body found at home, note recovered

The deceased, Karuna Dwivedi, was found hanging in a room of her matrimonial home on Wednesday morning. Police recovered a 10-page suicide note in which she blamed her husband, Shivam Mishra, and her mother-in-law for pushing her to take the extreme step.

In the note, Karuna wrote that she was “fed up with daily harassment” and expressed deep anguish over the behaviour of her in-laws, stating she felt betrayed and abandoned.

Married in May, harassment began early

Karuna was married to Shivam Mishra of Badhaiya Bhaluha village on May 8, 2025. Her brother, Kuldeep Dwivedi, told local media that harassment began within 15 days of the wedding. He alleged that the in-laws demanded dowry, including money and even household items such as potatoes and onions.

About a month ago, Karuna returned to her maternal home, telling her family that she would not go back due to the abuse she faced.

Allegations of abuse and neglect

In her suicide note, Karuna described constant quarrels, physical assault and emotional humiliation. She accused her husband of slapping her, denying her basic care and prioritising money over her dignity. She also alleged that her mother-in-law repeatedly insulted her, compared her unfavourably with others and made her feel unwanted.

Karuna wrote that she apologised repeatedly and endured the abuse in silence but felt completely isolated, with no one to share her suffering with. She stated that the continuous mental torture made her feel worthless and left her seeing no option other than suicide.

Family seeks justice

Karuna’s brother said the family earns a modest living through farming and selling momos. He alleged that despite efforts to resolve the matter, the harassment continued. “She told us she was beaten by her husband and mother-in-law together and did not want to return,” he said.

Police investigation under way

Hanumana police station in-charge Anil Kakade said it was a case of suicide and that the suicide note was being examined. Sub-Divisional Police Officer Shachi Pathak is leading the investigation, and further legal action will be taken based on the findings.

Authorities said statements from family members have been recorded and all allegations will be probed thoroughly.