Police say the motive is still unclear, and no link to occult practices has been confirmed.
Bankura, West Bengal: A man has been arrested in West Bengal’s Bankura district after allegedly killing his wife and his father with a sharp weapon on Monday night. The incident caused panic in the area, as residents said the accused was seen walking around the village with a knife after the killings.
What Happened
The incident took place in the Lal Baba Manachar area, along the Damodar River. The spot lies near the boundary between Sonamukhi police station in Bankura district and Kanksa police station in Paschim Bardhaman district.
The accused has been identified as Mangal Choudhury. Police say he allegedly killed his wife, Rumpa Choudhury, 39, and then attacked his father, Rajendra Choudhury, who was around 60 years old.
According to local accounts, the woman’s severed head was found placed in front of a trident at a place of worship inside the house. His father was allegedly killed in the courtyard.
Panic in the Village
Residents said Mangal also tried to attack his brother, who managed to escape. After that, the accused was reportedly seen moving around the village with a knife, which left people frightened.
Police teams from both Sonamukhi and Kanksa police stations reached the spot after being informed. They brought the situation under control and arrested Mangal. Both bodies were recovered and sent for post-mortem examinations, police sources said.
Police Examine a Possible Tantric Angle
Investigators are looking into whether the killings were linked to tantric practices. Tantra refers to certain religious and ritual practices, and some of them involve secret rituals. However, police have clearly said they have not confirmed any such connection.
Local residents said Mangal and his wife regularly prayed at a temple inside their house. They also claimed that a tantric practitioner often visited the family. These claims have led to talk and speculation in the locality about whether the killings were connected to occult practices.
Police are also checking reports that the accused injured one of his fingers before the incident. Investigators are examining the full sequence of events that led to the violence.
Motive Still Unclear
The reason behind the double murder remains unknown. Police are also trying to find out whether anyone else influenced or encouraged the accused to commit the crime.
Officers are questioning people who may have information about the family and what happened in the days and hours before the killings. Police have said they are investigating every angle, including the religious practices reported at the house, without drawing any conclusion about a link.
Community in Shock
The incident has left residents deeply shocked. Two members of the same family have lost their lives, and many questions remain unanswered about what led to such violence.
What Happens Next
As in every criminal case in India, the accused is presumed innocent until a court decides otherwise. Police will continue their investigation, collect evidence and file a charge sheet in court. A trial will follow, and a judge will give the final decision.
