Man found dead, wife’s body found buried beneath cot

Sagaya Fernando | May 03, 2025

 

Khargone, Madhya Pradesh- In a chilling case of suspected murder and suicide, authorities in Madhya Pradesh’s Khargone district uncovered a deeply disturbing scene: the body of a woman buried beneath a cot inside her rural home, and her husband lying dead on the same bed, apparently having consumed poison.

The incident took place in Sulgaon village, under the jurisdiction of Barwah Police Station. Local residents became suspicious after a foul odour began emanating from the couple's locked home. When no one responded for days, villagers forcibly broke the lock and made the grim discovery.

Inside, 45-year-old Laxman Dubalia was found unconscious, sprawled on a traditional wooden cot. Near his body were a bottle of pesticide and a water container. Shockingly, from the earthen floor beneath the cot, a woman's hand was visibly protruding, prompting police to investigate further.

Upon digging the shallow grave, authorities found the partially decomposed body of Dubalia’s wife, 40-year-old Rukminibai. She had reportedly been dead for several days, and the hastily covered grave had failed to conceal all evidence — her hand remained exposed, which eventually led to the discovery through the stench.

“It appears the woman was murdered several days ago and buried in haste. The exposed hand and the foul odour gave it away. Her husband likely poisoned himself afterward, possibly fearing the crime would be discovered,” said Inspector Balram Singh Rathore, Officer-in-Charge of Barwah Police Station, while speaking to the press at the scene.

Domestic Strain and Suspected Violence

According to local villagers, the couple had been married for five years and lived alone. They often heard loud quarrels from the house, and Dubalia was known to struggle with alcohol addiction. Although there is no direct evidence of prior physical abuse, neighbours hinted at ongoing domestic discord.

“They rarely interacted with others. We heard shouting often, but never thought it would come to this,” said one villager.

Forensic Examination and Ongoing Investigation

Police have sent both bodies for post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause and time of death. While early signs point toward a domestic homicide followed by suicide, authorities are treating it as an open investigation.

There were no signs of forced entry, and preliminary checks indicate no involvement from external parties. However, officers have not ruled out other possibilities, including premeditation or assistance in the burial.

“We are investigating all angles — including motive, history of domestic violence, and any possible third-party involvement,” added Inspector Rathore.

Current Status

Post-mortem reports are awaited from Barwah District Hospital.

Forensic teams are analyzing the pesticide bottle and the burial site.

No formal charges have been filed, but the case remains active under Section 174 of the Criminal Procedure Code (unnatural death).

The village of Sulgaon remains in shock as news of the gruesome discovery spreads. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.