A newborn’s death in Karnataka’s Chikkamagaluru district has come under police investigation after the infant was allegedly buried soon after birth, raising suspicions over the circumstances surrounding
the death. The incident was reported from Bavikere village in Tarikere taluk.
According to police, the baby boy was born to a woman working as a staff nurse. The woman, who was reportedly pregnant before marriage, went into labour around 15 days ago. She is said to have delivered the baby herself at home, with assistance from three women, along with her family members.
However, the infant reportedly died within minutes of birth. Family members claimed the baby did not survive long after delivery.
Burial of Infant Raises Suspicion
Following the baby’s death, the infant was buried in a ditch near the house. The matter came to light after a local resident living near the burial site grew suspicious and alerted the police.
Acting on the information, police visited the spot and confirmed that the newborn had been buried. Based on preliminary findings, a case was registered at the Lakkavalli police station.
After registering the case, police exhumed the body of the newborn for further investigation. The remains were sent to McGann Hospital in Shivamogga for a post-mortem examination to ascertain the exact cause of death.
Police officials said the post-mortem report would play a crucial role in determining whether the death occurred naturally or if there was any foul play involved.
Suspicion of Infanticide Under Investigation
Investigators have not ruled out the possibility of infanticide and are examining all angles. There is suspicion that the mother and grandmother may have been involved in causing the newborn’s death, though police stressed that conclusions would only be drawn after forensic and medical reports are reviewed.
Statements from family members and others present at the time of delivery are being recorded as part of the probe.
Police Await Medical Report
Officials said further action would be taken based on the post-mortem findings. Until then, the investigation remains ongoing, and no arrests have been made.
Police have appealed to the public not to speculate on the case and said that all facts would be established through due legal process.
