NewsFlash Daily™
15 April 
A shocking alleged honour killing in Karnataka’s Belagavi district has triggered outrage after a 25-year-old woman was reportedly poisoned by relatives and her body burned after she chose to live with the man she loved
Belagavi: A deeply disturbing alleged honor killing case from Karnataka’s Belagavi district has sent shockwaves across the state. A 25-year-old woman was allegedly murdered by her own family members after she had left home to live with a man she loved.
Police said the woman, identified as Sattevva Helavar (25), was allegedly poisoned and later her body was burned in an attempt to destroy evidence. Multiple accused relatives have been arrested, and an investigation is underway.
Love Relationship Continued After Marriage
According to preliminary findings, Sattevva was reportedly in a relationship with Krishna Patil, a resident of Nadigudi village. After the family came to know of the relationship, she was married around four years ago to another man from Hanabaratti village in Raibag taluk.
However, investigators say she remained in contact with Krishna even after marriage. On February 17, 2026, the two allegedly left home and began living in a rented house in
Belavadi village of Savadatti taluk.
Family Allegedly Pressured Her to End Relationship
Police sources state that about fifteen days ago, relatives traced the couple and brought her back home. Attempts were allegedly made by both families to settle the matter and pressure Sattevva to cut ties with Krishna.
When she reportedly refused, she was first sent to her sister’s house in Shirol, Maharashtra. Investigators suspect that continued pressure followed there as well.
Later, she was allegedly taken to Arag village in Sangli district where she was poisoned on March 21.
Body Allegedly Burned to Hide Crime
Police allege that after the killing, the accused cremated the body and burned bedding materials to erase possible evidence.
The accused include her brother Shanoor Helavar, uncle Prakash Helavar, and another relative, Mayappa Helavi, according to the complaint.
Complaint by Lover Led to Breakthrough
When Sattevva could no longer be contacted, Krishna became suspicious and filed a missing complaint at the Yamakanmardi Police Station.
During the investigation, police detained and questioned the suspects. Authorities say the accused later admitted involvement during interrogation. Formal legal proceedings are continuing.
“She deserves justice,” Krishna reportedly appealed after the arrests.
Statewide Concern Over Honour Crimes
The case has reignited debate over violence committed in the name of family prestige, caste, or social pressure. Activists continue to call for stronger protection for consenting adults choosing their own partners.
Police said further investigation is ongoing, including collection of forensic and documentary evidence.
