Daijiworld Media Network - Belagavi (SP)

Belagavi, Dec 11: A youth whose engagement ceremony with a girl was held last year, murdered his would-be bride on Monday December 9 after getting angry at the fact that her phone had been switched off when he tried to contact her.

Ningavva (18) from Gujanatti in Mudalgi taluk in the district was the victim of the groom's rage. Ramesh Laxman Katti from Mugalihala in Saundatti taluk is the murder-accused.

Ningavva's marriage was engaged to be held with Ramesh. Ramesh used to visit Ningavva often at her home. He also spoke to her on phone now and then. It is said that he had passed strictures on her against her free movement and barred her from visiting houses of others.

On Monday, Ramesh called Ningavva on phone but found that her phone was switched off. Angered by this, Ramesh came to Gujanatti and smothered her to death, it is said. When he reached Ningavva's home, she was alone at home, it is gathered. Ningavva's father has filed murder complaint against Ramesh. There are allegations that Ramesh had raped the girl before killing her. Investigation is continuing.