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Photo: IANS

Tumakuru (Karnataka), May 18: Authorities in Karnataka's Tumakuru district are investigating a suspected honour killing, leading to the arrest of a father in connection with the murder of his 17-year-old daughter.

The victim, identified as Meghana, lived in Nimbemaradahalli village, which falls under the Kallambella Police Station's jurisdiction. Her father, Timmarayappa, aged 48, has been taken into custody.

Reports indicate that Timmarayappa allegedly took his daughter's life due to her relationship with a distant relative. Investigators revealed that he murdered Meghana on April 16 and concealed her body near a water source adjacent to his agricultural land, subsequently feigning a search for her after claiming she was missing.

The police have completed the mahazar process, and a postmortem examination is set to occur today with the presence of the Additional Commissioner and the Tahsildar.

Meghana was an 11th-grade student. Authorities noted that she was involved with a boy related to her mother's side, a relationship her father vehemently opposed. Her mother had advised her to concentrate on her studies and postpone any marriage decisions until she turned 18 and completed her education.

Initial investigations revealed that Meghana had not attended college for the past six months and had been staying at home. She was reported missing on April 16, and despite the family's inquiries with neighbors and relatives, she could not be located. Three days later, her mother filed a missing person report with the police.

Approximately a week after the report was filed, Timmarayappa left home, claiming he was searching for his daughter. His extended absence raised suspicions, prompting Meghana's mother to alert the police.

Upon his return to the village, police detained Timmarayappa. During interrogation, he initially stated he had visited the pilgrimage sites of Tirupati and Dharmasthala but later allegedly confessed to the murder.

Investigations are ongoing.