Agartala: A man allegedly strangled his third wife to death at their residence in Tripura’s West district as he was unable to meet her daily alcohol demands, police said on Monday.
The incident took place at Bamutia Kali Bazar area under the limits of Lefunga police station, about 25 km from here, on July 10. The accused, identified as Biswajit Biswas, later surrendered and confessed to the crime, police said.
The deceased, Gopa Bhil, was found dead in her house three days ago, following which a probe was launched, said a police officer.
“After initial investigation, the husband of the deceased went into hiding. However, he later appeared at Lefunga police station and admitted to murdering his wife. He stated that he strangled her following a heated argument over alcohol,” the official said.
According to police, Biswas used to work as an ice-cream vendor and was struggling financially. He told police that his wife was dependent on alcohol and used to demand 2-3 litres of country liquor daily. On his failure to provide the same he faced physically assault and torture.
“My income was not sufficient to buy alcohol every day. Whenever I refused, she used to beat me mercilessly,” Biswas told police.
A crime scene reconstruction was conducted in presence of Lefunga OC Sahadeb Das, Second Officer Sudip Jamatia, Investigating Officer Ajit Jamatia, and TSR personnel. The accused demonstrated how the murder took place, police said.
Local sources said that both the accused and the deceased were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. Neighbours alleged that alcohol was central to both the formation and the tragic end of their relationship.
Police said this was the third marriage for the accused. His first wife had deserted him, while his second wife had eloped with his brother.
The body has been sent for post-mortem examination, and further investigation is underway, police added.
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