Man booked for killing live-in partner in Burail

The Chandigarh Police have booked a 35-year-old man for allegedly murdering his live-in partner, whose body was found at their rented accommodation at Burail village, Sector 45, on Wednesday evening.

The 39-year-old deceased, a domestic worker, reportedly suffered head injuries. The police suspect she was assaulted and killed following a altercation.

An FIR under Section 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) — pertaining to murder — has been registered at the Police Station-34 following a complaint lodged by the victim’s cousin, a resident of Sector 39. The accused, identified as Shanker, had been cohabiting with the deceased for some time. He fled the scene after locking the room from the outside after allegedly committing the crime.

Police officials stated that there were clear signs of struggle at the crime scene. The room bore indications of a violent confrontation — blood stains on the floor, scattered household items, and signs of forced impact. Preliminary findings suggest the woman died of severe head trauma. The motive behind the assault is yet to be ascertained. There were reports that body was half-naked, but the police have ruled out the speculation of rape since she was live-in partner of the accused.

The crime came to light when a carpenter arrived at the building for work. Noticing foul smell from the room, he contacted building caretaker Kiran, who opened the room and discovered the woman lying lifeless. Kiran immediately alerted the police control room.

The building where the incident occurred houses nearly 60 rented rooms. According to officials, no police verification had been carried out for the deceased, the accused or several other tenants. They have now launched a verification drive to document all occupants and identify potential witnesses or accomplices.

The deceased had a son from her first marriage. Her former husband lives in Bengal. Her son had returned to Chandigarh a day before the incident. He, however, reportedly refused to perform her last rites. The woman also had a daughter with Shanker.

A forensic team visited the spot and collected biological and material evidence for analysis. The body has been sent for post mortem.

Meanwhile, a manhunt has been launched to trace the absconding accused. Investigators are examining CCTV footage from the area and speaking to neighbours and tenants to gather further leads.