Farmer slept in a hut with live-in partner, unknown persons set it on fire from outside; both burned alive
Chennai (The Uttam Hindu): A shocking and tragic incident has come to light from the Chengam area of Tamil Nadu. On Friday morning, unidentified persons allegedly locked a hut from outside and set it on fire, resulting in the death of a 53-year-old farmer and his 40-year-old live-in partner, who were sleeping inside at the time.
According to the police, the deceased have been identified as P. Shaktivela of Pakiripalayam village and his partner S. Amrutham. Shaktivela was a farmer by profession and was living in a small 10×10 feet hut built on nearly three acres of land taken on lease from a villager.
Early Friday morning, locals noticed a strong smell of smoke and burning. When they rushed to the spot, the hut was completely engulfed in flames. The police were immediately informed, following which police officials and other investigation teams reached the scene.
Chengam Police Inspector M. Selvaraj said that two bodies were found inside the burnt hut in a severely charred condition, making identification difficult. Preliminary investigation suggests that the incident may have been planned, as the door of the hut was found locked from outside. Evidence has been collected with the help of a forensic team and sniffer dogs, and the bodies have been sent for post-mortem examination.
The police are also looking into the possibility of a family dispute. Reports indicate that Shaktivela had separated from his wife Tamilarsi three years ago. She currently lives in Bengaluru with their two sons and a daughter. A night before the incident, Shaktivela’s daughter had visited him, had dinner, and returned.
Amrutham was also living separately from her husband and has three children. Shaktivela and Amrutham had been living together for the past three years, and there are indications that their relationship had led to disagreements with some people. The case has been registered as a suspicious death, and police are questioning family members and close associates from all angles.
Following the incident, fear has gripped the entire area. Police are continuing their investigation to identify the attackers and determine the motive behind the brutal act.