A poverty-stricken man killed his three daughters, a son and wife before committing suicide in the Sangmeshwar area of Malegaon town on Thursday. Among the dead is a seven-month-old baby girl. The bodies were discovered by neighbours who informed the local police.
The police suspect that Suresh Sahu (45) allegedly strangulated to death his wife Sunita (35), daughters Ankita (13), Roshni (4.5), Dimple (7 months) and son Deepak (7). Sunita was found hanging in a room, while the children lay dead on the bed. Suresh’s body was found in the bathroom with the broken noose.
The incident came to light when neighbours knocked their door to call them to fetch water, but did not get a response. According to sources, water arrives every three days in the area. When the Sahu family did not come out to fill water, a concerned neighbour peeped through the window and was shocked to see the bodies lying in the house. The neighbour then informed other family members residing in the nearby areas. They broke down the door and discovered the bodies. The police was informed and the bodies were taken to Malegaon Civil Hospital for autopsy.
Speaking to The Asian Age, police inspector P.G. Kamble said that cases have been filed under Sections 302, 306 and 201 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and further investigations are on.
“Presently, it appears that Suresh killed his family and then committed suicide. But, we are studying all angles and will form our opinion after investigations are over,” said Mr Kamble.
Meanwhile, additional civil surgeon K.S. Dange said that the death occurred due to strangulation. “No other signs were visible,” said Dr Dange.
Sources said that until five years ago, deceased Sahu was a prosperous lottery seller and had amassed a huge fortune. He lived with his family in a five-storey building. However, over the years he lost his wealth and lived in a one-room house and sold utensils on a handcart. Sahu’s brother-in-law Rajendra Jankidas Gupta said that he must have been deeply affected due to poverty and shock.
Sangmeshwar has a predominant Hindu population.