The investigation into the murder of constable Shubhamitra has taken a shocking turn, revealing disturbing allegations against the prime accused, Deepak Rout.
Following his arrest, Deepak’s past has come under scrutiny, with fresh claims that he may have also murdered his first wife, Aparna Priyadarshini, in a staged road accident in 2022.
Deepak had married Aparna in 2018 in a love marriage. He claimed she died in a tragic accident near Khuntuni while returning from Bhubaneswar to Dhenkanal. According to his version, Aparna was hit by a truck while stepping out of their car, and a delay in ambulance arrival led to her death. However, Aparna’s family now alleges that Deepak fabricated the story and orchestrated her murder to claim over Rs 1.5 crore in insurance money.
Shubhamitra’s father has also accused Deepak of being part of a larger conspiracy involving his builder brother, relatives, and even a doctor. He has demanded a thorough investigation into the role of the insurance company and seizure of Deepak’s assets.
After Shubhamitra’s body was recovered nearly a week after her death, it was handed over to the family following post-mortem and cremated at Puri’s Swargadwar. Her family has called for strict legal action and justice, suspecting property disputes in Bhubaneswar as the motive behind her murder.
Deepak has been suspended from duty following his arrest by Capital Police and produced in court. DCP Jagmohan Meena confirmed that police are aware of Aparna’s death and have initiated communication with Cuttack rural police. If new evidence emerges, a fresh investigation will be launched.
On Wednesday night, Deepak and two other accused were brought to Bhubaneswar after a scene recreation in Keonjhar. Capital Police conducted marathon interrogations, including face-to-face questioning, to verify statements. Investigators suspect that a property dispute may be the root cause of the murder.