Ghatkesar Suicide Takes Murder Turn
A source said Sriram had left a letter stating that they had been in a relationship but faced resistance from their families due to caste differences. He alleged that Chintu had spotted them together and began demanding money in exchange for silence. They had allegedly paid Rs 1.3 lakh, but the threats continued
Hyderabad:In a disturbing twist to the January suicide case in Ghatkesar, where a couple was found dead in a burning car, police now suspect a possible murder-suicide plot. Initial investigation into harassment by the minor girl’s cousin had led nowhere, but new findings suggest Sriram, who was in the car, may have killed his the girl before setting himself ablaze.
Police were awaiting forensic reports, which could clarify whether any cash transactions were made between Sriram or the girl and her cousin. If no transactions are found, Chintu’s role may be ruled out.
In January, Sriram, 26, and his 16-year-old girlfriend died in the car fire near Ghatkesar. The initial probe pointed to suicide, driven by caste opposition and harassment. A source said Sriram had left a letter stating that they had been in a relationship but faced resistance from their families due to caste differences. He alleged that Chintu had spotted them together and began demanding money in exchange for silence. They had allegedly paid Rs 1.3 lakh, but the threats continued.
Investigators also found a message sent from Sriram’s phone to the girl’s father, the girl stating that they were leaving together and asking him to stop opposing the relationship. In the message, the girl also requested the father that Sriram’s family be looked after. However, police believe the messages were written by Sriram, not the girl. Her father confirmed she never expressed any intention of eloping with Sriram.
Police found that Sriram had taken the girl to his room before driving to the service road in Ghatkesar where they were found charred. A source said, “Sriram took his friend’s car, picked her up from college, and took her to his room. After some time, they left for the service road. It’s suspected he laced her drink before taking her in the car. He carried a 20-litre fuel can, poured it over the car while she was unconscious, and set it ablaze. He then died by suicide. That’s why he was found on the road.”
The girl had reportedly begun distancing herself from Sriram after her cousin Chintu cautioned her. This may have triggered Sriram’s alleged plan to kill her and himself. While police continue to corroborate evidence, the forensic report is expected to confirm whether Chintu had any role or was falsely implicated.