Husband and Accomplice Arrested in Uttar Pradesh Woman's Murder

In Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh, a husband and his female associate have been apprehended over the suspected murder of his 22-year-old wife, Preeti Devi. Preeti, who married Chunnilal Prajapati in March 2025, was identified after her body was found in May, following an initial missing person report.

The father of the victim, Shyam Dev, accused Prajapati and several others of involving in dowry-related abuse, eventually leading to Preeti's disappearance and murder. During questioning, Prajapati's associate, Shobha Chaurasia, allegedly confessed to following Prajapati's instructions to drug Preeti and facilitate the murder near Bayasi Bridge.

Using the substance provided by Prajapati, Chaurasia reportedly made Preeti unconscious before transporting her to a secluded area where Prajapati allegedly strangled her. The pair then attempted to cover up the crime by hiding her body and filing a false missing report.

The authorities have charged the detained individuals with murder and are actively pursuing other suspects involved in this grievous crime, as confirmed by Superintendent of Police Omvir Singh. Investigation continues under the Indian Penal Code and the Dowry Prohibition Act.

(With inputs from agencies.)