By Sagaya Fernando | October 16, 2025
Bengaluru, Karnataka, INDIA: In a chilling case that has sent shockwaves through the medical community, Bengaluru Police have arrested a general surgeon for allegedly murdering his wife, a dermatologist, by administering the powerful anaesthetic drug Propofol — commonly used only in operation theatres.
The accused, Dr. Mahendra Reddy, a general surgeon at Victoria Hospital, has been arrested for the murder of his wife, Dr. Kruthika M. Reddy (28), after forensic analysis confirmed that she died due to the anaesthetic compound. The couple, both doctors, had been married less than a year.
Suspicious Death Initially Treated As Natural
The incident dates back to April 21, 2025, when Kruthika reportedly collapsed at her father’s residence in Marathahalli, where she had been staying due to health issues. Her husband, Mahendra, had visited her two days earlier and administered intravenous injections, claiming it was part of her treatment.
Kruthika was rushed to a nearby private hospital but was declared brought dead. At the time, the death appeared natural, and the Marathahalli Police registered an Unnatural Death Report (UDR). However, her family grew suspicious after inconsistencies emerged in Mahendra’s statements and behaviour.
Forensic Report Exposes the Truth
The turning point came six months later when the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) submitted its findings, confirming the presence of Propofol in multiple organs of the deceased. Propofol, a restricted drug used to induce and maintain anaesthesia, can be fatal if improperly administered.
Based on this evidence, the case was reclassified as murder under Section 103 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and Mahendra was arrested on October 14, 2025, from Manipal in Udupi district, where he had relocated after the incident. A Look-Out Circular (LOC) had already been issued to prevent his escape.
Crucial Evidence and Crime Scene Findings
During the scene inspection at the couple’s home in Munnekollal, forensic officers recovered a cannula set, injection tube, and other medical equipment, which were sent for forensic analysis. Investigators suspect Mahendra used his hospital access to obtain Propofol from the operation theatre or ICU, using his professional knowledge to administer a fatal dose.
Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh stated, “Evidence collected so far points to the husband’s direct involvement. He brought her to the hospital claiming she was unwell, without mentioning any injection or treatment. Later analysis revealed the presence of sedatives, suggesting malafide intent. The investigation will uncover how he used his medical expertise to stage a natural death.”
Family’s Complaint Leads to Arrest
Following the FSL confirmation, Kruthika’s father, Muni Reddy, filed a detailed complaint on October 13, accusing his son-in-law of premeditated murder. The grieving father told police, “Kruthika trusted her husband completely — she believed in his love and in his profession. But the same medical knowledge that should have saved lives was used to end hers. Justice for Kruthika is justice for every woman who believes in love and integrity.”
Her elder sister, Dr. Nikitha M. Reddy, a radiologist, had also raised early suspicions and pushed for a deeper investigation when the initial UDR was filed.
Accused’s Criminal Family Background
Investigations further revealed that Mahendra’s family had a history of criminal involvement. His twin brother, Dr. Nagendra Reddy G.S., was accused in multiple cheating cases at HAL Police Station in 2018, while Mahendra and another brother, Raghava Reddy G.S., were named co-accused in a 2023 criminal intimidation case. Kruthika’s family alleged that these details were concealed during the marriage negotiations.
Victim’s Promising Career Cut Short
Dr. Kruthika Reddy, described by colleagues as brilliant and compassionate, had an impressive academic record. She completed her MBBS from Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences, followed by MD (Dermatology) from Navodaya Medical College, Raichur, and DNB (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy) from the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS).
Tragically, she was just weeks away from launching her own dermatology clinic, “Skin & Scalpel”, which was scheduled to open on May 4, 2025.
Investigation Ongoing
Mahendra remains in police custody as Marathahalli Police continue to interrogate him regarding how he procured and administered the restricted drug. Investigators are also tracing the hospital sources from which Propofol may have been diverted.
The case has sparked outrage and deep concern across Karnataka’s medical fraternity, prompting calls for stricter controls over access to anaesthetic agents and stronger oversight on their use outside hospital settings.
Police officials say more arrests may follow if evidence suggests collusion in the procurement or concealment of the drug.
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