The decomposed bodies of an elderly couple, who had been missing for 10 days from Kalyan taluka, were discovered in a secluded area nearly 20 kilometers away in Murbad taluka. Police have stated that they are yet to determine the exact cause of death due to the advanced stage of decomposition but suspect that the couple may have died by suicide. They were reportedly distressed following a dispute with one of their daughters over financial and property-related matters.
Identification and Background
The deceased have been identified as Mahadu Gharat (85) and his wife Kamalabai (75), residents of Bhasale village in Kalyan taluka. According to Kalyan Taluka police, the Gharats had received Rs 30 lakh from a land deal. Of this amount, Rs 15 lakh was distributed among their three daughters and a son, all of whom are married and living separately. The remaining Rs 15 lakh was deposited in their bank account. However, one of the daughters reportedly demanded a share from that Rs 15 lakh as well.
Dispute and Disappearance
Police said this dispute may have caused significant distress to the Gharats. Before leaving home less than a fortnight ago, they allegedly told their children that they did not want the Rs 15 lakh or even the house. The couple was reported missing on April 18, after which one of their daughters lodged a complaint at the Kalyan Taluka police station. An extensive search operation was launched in nearby areas, but there was no trace of the couple for several days.
Discovery of Bodies
The case took a turn when Murbad police received information from a local police patil about two bodies found in an isolated area. After conducting a panchnama, the bodies were sent for post-mortem examination. Senior inspector Sachin Hundlekar of Murbad police station said the post-mortem report could not determine the exact cause of death due to the advanced stage of decomposition. "The samples have been sent for chemical analysis, and the report will help ascertain the exact reason," he said. Hundlekar added that police are simultaneously questioning family members and relatives to piece together the circumstances leading to the deaths.
