Bengaluru girl's death turns into murder case; mother, live-in partner accused

Bengaluru: The death of six-year-old P. Vennela, initially believed to be suspicious but unexplained, has now been classified as murder following a breakthrough investigation by Bengaluru's Kadugodi police.

Authorities on Thursday arrested the child's mother, Priyanka, after previously taking her live-in partner Mohan into custody. Police allege the two were involved in the killing of the young girl and subsequently attempted to cover up the crime.

According to investigators, the incident occurred after Vennela allegedly spilled ice cream inside a luxury vehicle owned by Mohan. During questioning, police claim Mohan confessed to becoming enraged and physically attacking the child. He allegedly struck her abdomen with his elbow and later suffocated her by covering her mouth.

The case has shocked residents and drawn widespread attention because of the disturbing allegations surrounding the child's death.

Vennela was the daughter of educationist Praveen and advocate Priyanka from Davanagere. Following marital disputes, Priyanka had reportedly moved out and was living with Mohan, a real estate entrepreneur and former college acquaintance, in a villa in Bengaluru.

Police said Mohan was already married and had two children. Despite having a family, he had allegedly been living with Priyanka for some time.

The investigation intensified after Praveen filed a complaint on June 4, accusing Priyanka and Mohan of murdering his daughter. He alleged that the child had become an inconvenience to the couple's relationship and private life.

Based on the complaint and subsequent evidence gathered during the investigation, police registered a murder case and initiated detailed forensic examinations.

Officials have seized and examined the luxury car believed to be linked to the incident. Forensic experts are assisting investigators in collecting scientific evidence to strengthen the prosecution's case.

Police said further investigation is underway to establish the complete sequence of events and determine the individual roles of the accused in the alleged murder.