Updated: September 23

Bengaluru: In a gruesome discovery, the body of 29-year-old Mahalakshmi was found dismembered into over 30 pieces inside a refrigerator in her apartment in Bengaluru’s Vyalikaval area on September 21, 2024. Authorities have now identified a prime suspect believed to be located in West Bengal, with efforts underway to apprehend him.

Karnataka’s Home Minister, G Parmeshwar, confirmed the latest developments, stating, “There is information about a person from West Bengal being a suspect. Efforts are ongoing to arrest him.” However, no arrests have been made so far, and suspects are currently being interrogated.

Key Details of the Mahalakshmi Murder Case:

• Victim Identified: Mahalakshmi, 29, was living separately from her husband in a one-bedroom apartment in Bengaluru.
• Body Discovered: Her dismembered body was found stored in a refrigerator.
• Suspect Identified: A suspect has been identified in West Bengal, and authorities are working to arrest him.
• Police Investigation: While no one is in custody yet, multiple suspects are being questioned.

Mahalakshmi, originally from Bengaluru, was estranged from her husband at the time of the incident. Following the discovery of the body, her husband arrived at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. The police are yet to determine the exact motive behind the crime, but they are actively pursuing leads.

Government Response on Women’s Safety

Amid growing concerns over the safety of women in the city, Home Minister Parmeshwar reassured the public that the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure security. “The Nirbhaya program is in place, CCTVs have been installed across sensitive areas, and additional measures are being implemented to enhance safety,” he said.

Opposition Criticism and Political Response

In an unrelated matter, the opposition BJP has raised concerns over Medical Education Minister Sharan Prakash Patil, accusing him of irregularities in the procurement of medical equipment for 18 colleges. Responding to these allegations, Parmeshwar stated, “I am unaware of this. Let us see.”