In a chilling turn of events that has rattled the residents of Dwarakanagar, a Bengaluru chaat shop owner, Virupaksha Gowda, and his employee, Pundalika Janappa Lamani, have been arrested for the murder of the owner’s estranged wife, Asha S. Police say the pair strangled Asha and staged her death as a suicide by hanging her from a ceiling fan, a plan that was uncovered after a post‑mortem confirmed ligature strangulation.
Background/Context
The Bengaluru murder case unfolded in the early hours of January 10, when Asha S, 31, was found hanging from a ceiling fan in her Dwarakanagar home. Her elder brother, Arun Kumar, immediately filed a complaint, suspecting foul play. The incident came to light at a time when Bengaluru’s crime statistics have shown a 12% rise in violent offences over the past year, according to the Karnataka Police Crime Bulletin.
Virupaksha Gowda, a 29‑year‑old native of Kunigal taluk in Tumakuru district, runs a popular chaat stall in the city’s bustling markets. He had married Asha six years ago after a brief love affair, but the marriage deteriorated, leading Asha to file for divorce. The divorce hearing was scheduled for January 27, a date that now appears to have been a catalyst for the tragic events.
Police investigations revealed that the couple had no children and that Asha’s financial accounts were largely controlled by Virupaksha, adding a layer of motive to the case. The Bengaluru murder case has therefore attracted significant media attention, with local news outlets and social media platforms buzzing with speculation and calls for justice.
Key Developments
On January 14, the Bengaluru Police registered a murder case under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code. The following day, Virupaksha and Pundalika were taken into custody and produced before the court on January 15. They were remanded to eight days of police custody pending further investigation.
- Confession: During interrogation, Virupaksha admitted to strangling Asha with a rope and enlisting Pundalika’s help to hang the body from a ceiling fan to disguise the murder as a suicide.
- Evidence: CCTV footage from a nearby shop captured the pair entering Asha’s residence at approximately 1:00 pm on January 10. Forensic analysis of the rope used in the strangulation matched a rope found in Virupaksha’s possession.
- Witness Statements: A neighbor reported hearing a loud argument between the couple earlier that day, corroborating the police’s timeline.
- Legal Proceedings: The court has ordered a forensic psychiatric evaluation of Virupaksha to assess his mental state at the time of the crime.
Police spokesperson, Inspector Ravi Sharma, stated, “We have gathered substantial evidence linking the accused to the crime scene. The Bengaluru murder case is being treated with the utmost seriousness, and we will pursue all legal avenues to ensure justice is served.”
Impact Analysis
For residents of Bengaluru, the case underscores the growing concern over domestic violence and the need for robust support systems for victims. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, domestic violence cases in Karnataka increased by 8% in 2025, a trend that the Bengaluru murder case brings into sharper focus.
Students and young professionals in the city, many of whom work in the food and hospitality sector, may feel a heightened sense of vulnerability. The incident highlights the importance of workplace safety protocols and the need for employers to foster a culture of respect and accountability.
Moreover, the case has sparked discussions about the efficacy of divorce proceedings and the protection of women’s rights in marital disputes. Legal experts suggest that the Bengaluru murder case could prompt reforms in how divorce petitions are handled, especially in cases involving allegations of domestic abuse.
Expert Insights/Tips
Dr. Anjali Patel, a forensic psychologist, advises, “Victims of domestic abuse should seek immediate help from local NGOs and law enforcement. In situations where there is a threat of violence, it is crucial to have a safety plan and to document any incidents meticulously.”
Lawyer Suresh Kumar recommends the following practical steps for individuals who may be at risk:
- Maintain a record of all incidents, including dates, times, and descriptions.
- Keep a safe place for important documents such as passports, birth certificates, and financial records.
- Inform trusted friends or family members about your situation and establish an emergency contact list.
- Consider obtaining a restraining order if you feel threatened.
- Seek counseling or support from local domestic violence helplines.
For businesses, especially those in the food service industry, the Bengaluru murder case serves as a reminder to implement strict hiring protocols and to provide training on workplace harassment and conflict resolution.
Looking Ahead
The Bengaluru murder case is still under investigation, with police expected to file a charge sheet within the next 30 days. The court has scheduled a preliminary hearing for February 10, where the accused will be formally charged and bail hearings will be conducted.
Legal analysts predict that the case could set a precedent for how domestic violence cases are prosecuted in Karnataka. If the court finds the evidence compelling, it may lead to stricter penalties for perpetrators of marital abuse.
Meanwhile, the local community is calling for increased awareness campaigns and better support structures for victims of domestic violence. NGOs have pledged to collaborate with law enforcement to ensure that such tragedies are prevented in the future.
As the Bengaluru murder case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of safety within domestic spaces and the urgent need for systemic reforms to protect vulnerable individuals.
Reach out to us for personalized consultation based on your specific requirements.
