Hubballi: A suspected case of honour killing has been reported from Inam Veerapur village in Hubballi Rural taluk, where a young pregnant woman was allegedly hacked to death by her family members for marrying a man from another caste, police said on Monday. The victim, identified as Manya Doddimani, aged between 19 and 20, was six months pregnant at the time of the attack.
According to police officials, Manya sustained severe injuries to her head and abdomen after being assaulted with agricultural tools and pipes. She was rushed to a private hospital in Hubballi in critical condition. Despite medical efforts, both Manya and her unborn child died during treatment.
Police said Manya had married Vivekanand Doddimani in May this year, defying opposition from her family. The marriage reportedly triggered hostility from her relatives, who allegedly issued threats to the couple following the wedding.
Fearing for their safety, Manya and her husband had moved to Haveri district after their marriage. However, they returned to Inam Veerapur village on December 8, police said. It was during this visit that the alleged attack took place.
According to the preliminary investigation, members of Manya’s family first attempted to assault Vivekanand and his father while they were working in agricultural fields. The two managed to escape the attack and fled the spot.
Police said the assailants then went to the house where Manya was present and launched a violent assault. Manya was allegedly targeted and struck repeatedly, resulting in fatal injuries. Other members of the household were also attacked during the incident.
The husband’s mother and uncle sustained serious injuries in the assault and were taken to hospital for treatment. Their condition was reported to be stable but critical, officials said.
Following the incident, police registered a case of murder and launched an investigation. Three accused, including Manya’s father, have been arrested in connection with the crime. Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend any additional persons involved.
Senior police officials said the case is being treated as a suspected honour killing linked to the inter-caste marriage. Investigators are recording statements from witnesses and collecting evidence from the scene to establish the sequence of events.
In view of the sensitivity of the incident and to prevent any potential unrest, heavy police deployment has been maintained in Inam Veerapur village. Authorities said the situation remains under control, and security personnel are closely monitoring the area.
The incident has once again brought attention to cases of violence linked to inter-caste marriages, despite legal protections for couples choosing partners of their choice. Police said strict action would be taken against all those found responsible.
Further investigation into the case is underway.
