Nelliyambam double murder; Accused Arjun sentenced to death

KALPATTA: Accused in Nelliyambam double murder case sentenced to death by the Kalpatta District Sessions Court. The accused, Arjun, was found guilty of the murders of retired teacher Kesavan and his wife Padmavathi Amma from Nelliyambam Padmalayam on the 24th of this month.

The murders occurred on June 10, 2021, at 8:30 pm during a robbery attempt. Arjun, who was a neighbour of the elderly couple, attacked them resulting in the death of Kesavan on the spot and Padmavathi while undergoing treatment at the hospital.

Initially, the police received information that two masked men had attacked the couple. However, Arjun was later arrested based on forensic test results. He was arrested on September 17th of the same year. During questioning at the station, Arjun attempted suicide by consuming rat poison hidden in his underwear.

As part of the investigation, many people including residents were interrogated. Arjun eventually confessed to the police. Initially, there were suspicions that someone else might have aided him in the crime. Arjun, who had previously worked in hotels and resorts in Bengaluru and Chennai, returned home during the lockdown. After losing his job, he resorted to wage labour.