Two recent brutal killings in Bengaluru have rekindled the debate on “crimes of passion.” While the public perceives them as a growing menace, law enforcement and experts affirm that such emotion-fueled offenses have existed for decades—only the most shocking ones gain spotlight.
On June 7, a man named Shankar decapitated his wife over suspected infidelity. Two days later, a 33-year-old woman was murdered by her partner at a hotel in South Bengaluru after she attempted to leave the relationship.
Shivakumar Gunare, Whitefield DCP, emphasized that these acts, though appearing impulsive, are often inspired by violent content in media—ranging from news reports to fiction. Echoing this, Prof. Meera Baindur noted the role media plays in influencing criminal behavior.
West Division DCP S Girish highlighted jealousy, ego, and trauma as frequent motivators. Counselor Maullika Sharma added that emotional repression from childhood and lack of validation lead to poor emotional regulation in adulthood. Rejection, she said, is often misinterpreted as a threat to one’s identity, especially under toxic masculinity.
She explained that many seek validation through relationships without emotional readiness. Warning signs are often missed due to normalized dysfunctional patterns from early family life.
Prof. Baindur pointed out that patriarchal beliefs fuel a sense of ownership over women, causing violent backlash when challenged. Early interventions by social workers can prevent escalation.
Investigators, as noted by DCP Hakay Akshay Machhindra, piece together crime narratives from evidence gaps. Emotional confessions take time and care, underscoring the psychological toll on both perpetrators and officers.
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