The Manipal police have arrested 26-year-old Esha Naik on charges of murdering his mother, Padmabai, 45. The case came to light following suspicious circumstances around Padmabai’s sudden death on June 19.
Padmabai, who had been undergoing treatment for back pain at the Udupi District Government Hospital, was last in contact with family members on the evening of June 18. According to complainant Shilpa, Padmabai had informed her of severe pain and difficulty getting up. Plans were being made for Padmabai to consult another doctor in Malpe the following day, with financial support promised by a relative.
On the night of June 18, around 9:24 pm, Esha Naik requested Rs 1,000 via PhonePe to take his mother to the hospital. Due to a failed transaction, the amount was not sent. The next morning, Esha informed the family that Padmabai was unresponsive. She was rushed to the District Ajjarkad Hospital, where doctors declared her dead.
Post-mortem examination revealed redness and marks around Padmabai’s neck, indicating strangulation. The Forensic Medicine Department of Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, confirmed she was murdered with malicious intent between 9:22 pm on June 18 and 9:45 am on June 19.
Police investigation revealed that the murder was allegedly motivated by financial disagreements and family disputes. A murder case was registered at Manipal Police Station, and Esha Naik was arrested.
Udupi SP Hariram Shankar confirmed that the probe is ongoing to uncover further details.
