A man allegedly killed his wife in a horrific attack before taking his own life while their children were away at a local fair, police say. Lalput Rathore, 52, is accused of attacking his wife, Janki, 50, at their home in the Hardoi district of Uttar Pradesh, northern India, late on Saturday. The couple’s children discovered their parents’ bodies after returning home from the fair.
Police believe the attack happened at around 11.30pm following an argument between the couple. Investigators suspect Lalput first attacked his wife with a knife, with reports saying her right eye had been gouged out.
She also suffered fatal injuries to her abdomen before allegedly being struck in the head and face with a brick. Police believe Lalput then went into another room of the family home and took his own life.
The couple’s eight-year-old son reportedly discovered his mother lying in a pool of blood when he returned from the fair. Relatives then searched the property and found Lalput dead in another room.
The children’s cries attracted the attention of neighbours, who came to the house before police were called. Officers recovered a blood-stained knife and a brick, which they believe were used during the attack.
Both bodies were sent for post-mortem examinations.
Police said their initial investigation suggested the couple had been involved in a long-running domestic dispute.
Lalput allegedly suspected his wife of being unfaithful, although this has not been established as fact.
Neighbours told police that the couple regularly argued and alleged that Lalput had previously assaulted his wife, particularly after drinking alcohol.
One local resident also claimed arguments had been triggered by people frequently visiting the family’s home.
The couple had eight children – six sons and two daughters.
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