Bengaluru: A 21-year-old woman allegedly killed herself at her home in Sunkadakatte in west Bengaluru Sunday, just four months after her marriage. She left a death note blaming her husband and his elder sister for her extreme step.Her family has accused her husband and his sister of harassing her for dowry. The deceased, Shwetha, a native of Kadur taluk in Chikkamagaluru district, worked in a garments factory and used to run tuition classes for schoolchildren. Recently, she joined a private school as a teacher.Police said Shwetha and Murthy, 27, an employee of a private finance firm, met on a train during a pilgrimage about one-and-a-half years ago. They exchanged phone numbers, remained in constant touch, and eventually fell in love.Four months ago, they tied the knot, and the couple lived in a rented accommodation. According to Shwetha’s mother Pushpavathi, dowry was not given at the time of the marriage. However, she alleged that Murthy’s elder sister, Narasamma, who lives nearby in Rajagopalanagar, frequently visited the couple’s house and harassed Shwetha to bring more dowry. She alleged that Murthy supported his sister, leading to frequent quarrels between the couple.Police said the couple reportedly had another argument Sunday morning. Shwetha left the house, saying she would stay at a paying guest accommodation. Later, after speaking with her mother, she returned home at around 2pm. Finding the house locked, she collected a spare key from the house owner.When Murthy returned home, he found his wife hanging in the bedroom.During the spot inspection, police recovered a handwritten death note in which Shwetha blamed her husband and his sister for the harassment she had endured. In the note, she also apologised to her mother and urged her not to forgive those responsible for her suffering. Kamakshipalya police registered a case.Murthy claimed that Shwetha was not allowing him to speak to his sister, Narasamma (50). Murthy’s father had two wives. Narasamma is the daughter of the first wife, while Murthy is the son of his second wife. After the death of their parents, Narasamma raised Murthy. Therefore, he did not want to stop talking to her, he claimed and added that the dowry allegations against him were false.BOXIf you are having suicidal thoughts or are in need of emotional support, call the suicide prevention helplines – Tele-Manas: 14416 or 1800-891-4416; Sahai: 080-25497777.
