A police constable has been arrested for allegedly killing his estranged wife in Belagavi district. The brutal murder, which took place on October 13, came to light on Friday.
The accused has been identified as Santosh Kamble, 35, a native of Nippani and a police constable attached to Nippani Police Station. The victim has been identified as Kashavva Karikatti, 34, a native of Belavadi village in Bailhongal taluk and a conductor attached to the Saundatti Depot of North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC).
Kashavva and Santosh Kamble had a love marriage in 2013 and have a 11-year-old son.
According to sources, Kashavva had got herself transferred to the Saundatti Depot on request following domestic disputes. Kashavva had even lodged a complaint against Santosh, alleging harassment which had resulted in his suspension. Subsequently, Kashavva had taken a divorce from Santosh. They were reportedly in touch even after the divorce.
As per the sources, Santosh visited her on October 13. They reportedly had a fight, and Santosh allegedly stabbed her to death. He locked the house and escaped from the scene, sources said.
The incident came to light after Kashavva’s colleagues and relatives went to her house on Thursday night, worried over her absence from duty. They found the house locked, but as they sensed a foul smell, they alerted the police.
Published – October 18, 2025 07:19 pm IST
