Bharathannoor native arrested for wife’s death

Fort Police on Sunday recorded the arrest of Bharathannoor native Athul (32) in connection with the alleged suicide of his wife Aratha (26), who hailed from Varkala. Arathy was found dead on Friday in the bedroom of their rented accommodation in Varkala, where the couple had been staying for almost six months.

According to the police, it was possible to obtain convincing evidence of severe domestic violence. Athul, who has been charged with domestic violence and inciting suicide, has reportedly confessed to frequently physically assaulting Arathy. In addition, the autopsy revealed nearly 15 injuries and wounds all over her body, indicating the physical torture she underwent before her death.

The findings apparently match Arathy’s suicide note and personal journal recovered by police from the crime scene. In her notes, the victim allegedly said that Athul tortured her.

Arathy, daughter of Baiju and Jinu of Vadasserikonam in Varkala, married Athul in December 2024. Her family alleged that the harassment started within just three months of the wedding. They also claimed that Athul had pawned nearly 50 sovereigns of Aratha’s gold ornaments. The family also alleged that Athul’s alleged extra-marital affairs led to frequent arguments.

Shortly before her death, Arathy sent photos of her injuries and physical injuries to her mother via WhatsApp. When Jin later failed to reach her daughter after several phone calls, she contacted Athula.

The investigation team suspects that Athul did not immediately try to save her or break down the door himself, even after reaching the house and realizing that Arathy might have attempted suicide. Instead, he decided to make a phone call and wait for his friends to arrive at the scene before forcing open the bedroom door.

(suicide prevention helpline: DISHA: 1056, 0471-2552056)

Published – 28 Jun 2026 20:11 IST