News Flash Daily
26 February 
Bengaluru police launch investigation after body of young migrant woman discovered under suspicious circumstances in Siddapur near Varthur
Bengaluru: The body of a 22-year-old woman, identified as Sonali Khatoon, was found under mysterious and suspicious circumstances in the Siddapur agricultural area of Bengaluru on Saturday evening, triggering concerns and prompting the police to register a murder case.
Discovery of the Body Raises Suspicion
According to police sources, local residents noticed the body in an agricultural field located on the outskirts of Varthur and immediately alerted authorities. A team from the Varthur Police Station rushed to the spot, conducted a preliminary inspection, and later shifted the body for post-mortem examination to ascertain the exact cause of death.
Victim Was Living With Husband in Bengaluru
Sonali Khatoon had been living in Bengaluru with her husband, Babu Sheikh Ashruddin, after the couple migrated to the city nearly a year ago in search of livelihood. Ashruddin is employed as a construction labourer at an under-construction building, while Sonali worked as a housekeeper in a private company, police said.
Events Leading Up to the Incident
On the day of the incident, Sonali reportedly forgot her mobile phone at her workplace and returned home. Later in the evening, she took her husband’s mobile phone, left the house, and never returned, raising alarm among family members.
Family’s Concern and Search Efforts
When Sonali failed to come back home for several hours, her family members attempted to contact her using the phone she had taken. However, the device was found to be switched off, deepening their suspicion. A search was initiated by relatives and acquaintances, and the matter was subsequently brought to the attention of the police.
Body Found Hours Later
The search ended in tragedy when Sonali’s body was found in the Siddapur agricultural area on Saturday evening. Police officials confirmed that visible circumstances indicated foul play, though they are awaiting the post-mortem report for medical confirmation.
Police Register Murder Case
Based on a formal complaint lodged by the victim’s family, the Varthur police have registered a case of murder against unidentified persons and initiated a detailed investigation. Police are examining call records, last known movements, CCTV footage from nearby areas, and are questioning individuals who may have had contact with Sonali before her disappearance.
“We are treating this as a serious case. All angles, including personal disputes and external involvement, are being thoroughly investigated,” a senior police officer said.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have assured the family that no possibility will be ruled out. Further details are expected once forensic and post-mortem reports are received. The case has once again highlighted concerns over the safety of migrant workers and women in rapidly expanding urban pockets of the city.
