A shocking and grisly incident unfolded on the outskirts of Bengaluru late Friday night, leaving the community horrified and police authorities scrambling for answers. A 26-year-old man named Shankar was arrested after being caught riding a scooter with the severed head of his wife, Manasa, also 26, placed on the vehicle’s footboard. The discovery sent shockwaves through the city and raised urgent questions about domestic violence and mental health.
How the Police Discovered the Crime
The gruesome scene came to light when Bengaluru police on patrol noticed bloodstains on Shankar’s clothes near Chandapura-Anekal Road in Heelalige village, Anekal taluk. Officers stopped him for questioning around 11:30 PM, only to uncover the horrifying truth — Shankar was carrying the severed head of his wife on his scooter.
According to a senior police officer cited by the Deccan Herald, this immediate suspicion and timely intervention prevented what could have been further tragedy or attempts to flee.
Background: The Victim and the Family
Manasa and Shankar were married for over five years and shared a three-year-old daughter. Both were employed in private companies — Shankar worked in Koramangala while Manasa was employed in Bommasandra. The couple lived together in a rented home in Heelalige.
Despite outward appearances, investigators revealed that marital tensions had escalated dramatically in recent days. Shankar reportedly suspected Manasa of having an extramarital affair, which led to arguments and emotional turmoil.
Manasa had left the home temporarily and was staying at a paying guest accommodation when the tragedy struck.
Investigation and Possible Motive
The police investigation suggests that the brutal act was driven by jealousy and suspicion. While the full motive is still under inquiry, reports indicate that Shankar’s mistrust and anger over the alleged affair might have been the catalyst.
Police have taken Shankar into custody, and further interrogations are underway to understand the sequence of events that led to this ghastly crime.
Community Shock and Call for Awareness
This case has sent ripples of shock throughout Bengaluru and beyond. It serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of unchecked domestic conflicts and the potential consequences of mental health issues and emotional distress.
Family members, neighbors, and colleagues described the couple as generally quiet and unassuming, highlighting how often violent tendencies can remain hidden until it’s too late.
Broader Context: Domestic Violence in India
India continues to grapple with alarming levels of domestic violence. Incidents involving extreme brutality, such as this one, underscore the urgent need for:
Better awareness and education about healthy relationships and conflict resolution.
Accessible mental health support for individuals under emotional distress.
Stronger legal and social protections for victims of domestic abuse.
Community vigilance to identify and intervene in at-risk situations before they escalate.
The Road Ahead
As the investigation proceeds, authorities have vowed to ensure justice for Manasa and provide support for her young daughter, whose life has been irrevocably changed by this tragedy.
This horrific incident calls upon society at large — families, communities, and institutions — to recognize the signs of domestic turmoil and act proactively to prevent such catastrophic outcomes.