A dramatic turn has emerged in the Ranjitha murder case in Yellapur, Uttara Kannada district, after the accused, identified as Rafique, was found dead in a forest area following the killing. Police had launched a search operation with the assistance of a dog squad after he allegedly fled the scene.
Ranjitha, a divorced woman and mother, was reportedly returning home from work at a government school when Rafique allegedly confronted her over a marriage proposal. Police reports say that after she refused, he attacked her with a knife and fled.
During the search, police found Rafique’s body hanging in the Kaalammanagar forest area of Yellapur. Preliminary reports indicate that he died by suicide after the murder. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding both deaths.
The murder had triggered anger in Yellapur, with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) calling for a bandh to protest the killing and demanding the accused’s arrest. Tensions had risen in the town as police conducted a search for Rafique.
After news of the accused’s death emerged, the proposed bandh was called off. Police remained deployed in the area to maintain law and order and prevent any further escalation.
The incident has left the Yellapur community deeply shaken and has highlighted concerns over harassment, violence against women and the need for swift intervention when threats or coercion are reported. The police investigation will be important in establishing the complete sequence of events and circumstances surrounding the deaths.