Guwahati, July 3, 2025 (Northeast Press):
In a deeply disturbing incident that has shocked the residents of Guwahati, a 72-year-old woman was found murdered at her residence in the Kharghuli area on Wednesday. The deceased, identified as Bandana Das, was allegedly killed by her caretaker and his wife, who were staying within the same compound to assist the elderly woman in her daily activities.
According to the Guwahati City Police, the couple has been arrested and taken into custody following preliminary investigations that led authorities to believe they were directly involved in the heinous act.
As per official reports shared by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central), Amitabh Basumatary, the victim had been living alone since the demise of her husband. Although she had no children, her brother’s family resided nearby and maintained occasional contact with her.
Despite her solitude, Bandana Das had employed a caretaker couple who resided on the premises to assist her with domestic chores. However, what initially appeared to be a support arrangement turned fatal.
Murder in Cold Blood After Repeated Disputes
DCP Amitabh Basumatary, addressing the media on Thursday, stated that during the investigation, the police found several inconsistencies in the statements provided by the caretaker and his wife. After further questioning and forensic analysis, the duo allegedly confessed to the crime.
“During sustained interrogation, the caretaker admitted to committing the murder in a moment of uncontrolled rage,”
Basumatary told reporters.
According to police sources, the victim and the caretaker were frequently engaged in arguments, primarily over domestic issues and personal disagreements. The accused caretaker claimed that the elderly woman would often scold him and his wife over trivial matters.
How the Crime Unfolded
On the day of the incident, following yet another verbal altercation, the caretaker reportedly attacked the elderly woman with a sharp knife, fatally stabbing her. After the gruesome act, the duo attempted to clean the scene using a piece of cloth in an apparent attempt to remove forensic evidence.
Police officials later recovered the murder weapon and the blood-stained cloth used to wipe down the crime scene, both of which are now crucial evidence in the ongoing case.
Investigation Underway; Forensic Team Called In
The Guwahati Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) has been roped in to carry out a detailed examination of the crime scene. Experts are analyzing fingerprints, DNA samples, and other material evidence to build a watertight case against the accused.
As of now, both accused individuals are under police custody and are being further interrogated. Legal proceedings have been initiated, and the authorities have assured that justice will be served.
Local Residents in Shock
The brutal nature of the crime has left residents of Kharghuli in deep shock. Many locals expressed disbelief that such a horrific act could occur in a relatively peaceful and close-knit community.
One of the neighbors, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “Bandana Das was a kind and soft-spoken woman. It’s terrifying to think that the very people she trusted with her safety turned out to be her killers.”
Safety of Senior Citizens Under Spotlight
This tragic incident has reignited discussions around the safety and security of senior citizens, particularly those living alone. With the elderly population growing and many depending on caretakers, the case highlights the pressing need for background verification, mental health support, and better legal safeguards.
Local NGOs and senior welfare associations are urging the state government to introduce stricter checks and awareness campaigns to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As the investigation progresses, all eyes remain on the outcome of the legal proceedings. The Guwahati Police have assured full transparency and a swift resolution to the case. The heartbreaking death of Bandana Das serves as a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the elderly and the importance of vigilance in our immediate surroundings.
Stay updated with Northeast Press for more on this developing story.
