Woman kills husband over illicit affair; dumps body 30 km away

 

Sumesh Rajan | 30 June 2025

Tumakuru, Karnataka, INDIA: In a chilling case of betrayal and murder, a woman in Karnataka’s Tumakuru district allegedly killed her husband with the help of her lover, after he objected to their relationship. The crime took place on June 24 in Kadashettihalli village, located in Tiptur taluk.

According to police, the accused, identified as Sumangala, allegedly attacked her husband Shankaramurthy (50) by throwing chilli powder into his eyes. She then reportedly assaulted him with a wooden club before pressing her foot against his neck to ensure his death. The brutal act is believed to have been premeditated and carried out in collaboration with her lover, Nagaraju, a resident of Karadalusante village.

Shankaramurthy, who lived alone in a farmhouse, was reported missing soon after the incident. His body was later discovered in a well, about 30 kilometres away, in Turuvekere taluk under the jurisdiction of the Dandanishivara police station. Investigators said the body had been stuffed into a gunny sack before being transported and dumped.

The case initially began as a missing person complaint at the Nonavinakere Police Station. However, during a search of the farmhouse, police found traces of chilli powder and evidence of a violent struggle on the victim's bed, which raised suspicions.

Further investigations, including an analysis of Sumangala’s mobile call detail records, led to a breakthrough. Under sustained questioning, she confessed to the murder and detailed the conspiracy between her and Nagaraju.

Sumangala worked as a cook at the Kalpataru Girls’ Hostel in Tiptur. Police believe the motive for the murder was her husband’s opposition to her extramarital affair.

A case has been registered under relevant sections at the Nonavinakere Police Station. Further investigation is underway.