Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Mar 28: Driven by frustration over his wife’s unemployment and escalating domestic disputes, the Bengaluru-based techie brutally murdered her in a fit of rage, stuffed her body into a trolley bag, and fled the city while staying in contact with the police, it is reported.
The accused, 36-year-old Rakesh Rajendra Khedkar, was tracked down near Pune and detained by Maharashtra Police after consuming cockroach poison in an apparent suicide attempt. Karnataka Police coordinated his arrest and are now monitoring his medical condition.
Investigations reveal that Rakesh and his wife, 32-year-old Gauri Rajendra Khedkar, had frequent arguments over financial struggles. During their final altercation, Rakesh allegedly slapped Gauri, leading her to retaliate by throwing a knife at him. In a violent outburst, he slit her throat and stabbed her in the abdomen.
To conceal the crime, he packed her body into a trolley bag, cleaned the house with phenyl, and placed the bag near the toilet before fleeing. Before leaving, he misled carpenters living nearby by claiming that his wife had died by suicide. He then called the police control room, his landlord, and Gauri’s parents, confessing to the murder.
Throughout his escape, Rakesh remained in contact with the police, allowing them to track his movements. DCP (South East) Sarah Fathima played a crucial role in keeping him engaged until his arrest. Though he initially demanded an FIR be filed before surrendering, he later switched to a second SIM card to communicate with friends, which ultimately led to his capture.
Neighbours described the couple as mostly reclusive but often seen holding hands in public. A resident recalled an incident where Rakesh had collapsed at home due to low blood sugar, and they had helped revive him.
The crime came to light when the house owner discovered the body and alerted the police. Gauri’s remains have been sent for post-mortem examination.
DCP Fathima confirmed that Rakesh worked remotely for a private firm, while Gauri held a Mass Media degree but was unemployed. The Bengaluru Police’s swift action in apprehending the accused within 24 hours has been widely appreciated.