Thiruvananthapuram, 27 June (H.S.):A 26-year-old woman was found hanging in the bedroom of her rented residence at Attukal in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday, with police suspecting it to be a case of suicide. However, allegations of prolonged domestic abuse made by her family have added a new dimension to the investigation.

The deceased, Aarathy, was a native of Chemmaruthi near Varkala and had been living with her husband, Athul (32), at the rented house.

According to the First Information Report (FIR) registered by the Fort Police, Aarathy is believed to have died between 4.45 p.m. and 7.15 p.m. on Friday. Police initially registered a case of unnatural death and shifted the body for post-mortem examination.

Following the incident, Aarathy's relatives alleged that she had been subjected to repeated physical assault by her husband since their marriage. Her cousin, Venkatesh, claimed that Aarathy had frequently shared photographs and videos of her injuries with her mother, Jinu, though the family was unaware of the full extent of the abuse she had allegedly endured.

According to the family, Aarathy had a fresh argument with her husband shortly before her death. Venkatesh alleged that she had once again sent photographs showing injuries to her mother after the altercation and said the incident may have driven her to take the extreme step.

Based on a complaint lodged by Aarathy's mother, the Fort Police have launched a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. Investigators are questioning Athul and examining the allegations of domestic violence as part of the probe.

Police said all aspects of the case, including the family's allegations, are being thoroughly investigated before any further legal action is taken.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman