BHUBANESWAR: Days after the body of a third-year MBBS student was discovered floating in a river in Cuttack, police arrested her estranged lover on Saturday. The accused, Odisha Administrative Service officer Bhimsen Prasad Tudu, was taken into custody following allegations from the victim's family that she was killed.
Background of the Relationship
Chandrika Hembram's family stated that she and Tudu were school sweethearts who had been in a relationship for 14 years and had planned to marry in 2027. However, after Tudu joined the Odisha Administrative Service, he reportedly backed out of the marriage plans and distanced himself from Hembram. The family further alleged that he began to harbor resentment towards her and made derogatory remarks about her complexion.
While Hembram underwent cosmetic treatment to lighten her skin, Tudu allegedly entered into a relationship with another woman, according to the victim's family.
Discovery of the Body
Chandrika Hembram’s body was found floating in the Kathajodi River on the morning of June 4. Shortly after, Tudu went absconding and later approached the Orissa High Court seeking anticipatory bail, police said.
"A coordinated search operation led to his arrest in Mayurbhanj district on Friday night. He has been brought to the Barang police station in Cuttack district for further questioning," an official stated.
Family's Allegations
The victim's mother, Hiramani, alleged that Tudu used to tell her daughter she was not beautiful or fair. "She was taking glutathione injection," her mother said.
Initially, the case was treated as a suicide, with post-mortem confirming drowning and asphyxiation, and forensic analysis revealing no external injuries to suggest foul play. However, the family claimed it was a "planned murder."
"How come my daughter died of drowning in knee-deep water?" Hembram's mother questioned.
Investigation and Evidence
Police said that following a complaint filed by the deceased’s mother, they have initiated an investigation using forensic and cyber forensic techniques, examining electronic devices, chat records, and a personal diary of both the victim and the accused.
At a press conference in Cuttack, Deputy Commissioner of Police Rishikesh Dnyandeo Khilari said, "Prima facie probe indicates that Tudu could be responsible for the death of the MBBS student. We have got digital evidence against Tudu."
"His laptop and tablet have been seized, and WhatsApp data has also been found. He was not cooperating with the investigation and attempted to evade arrest," the officer told PTI.
