Jhansi Murder Case: Woman Plotted Killing of Mother-in-Law After Series of Shocking Family Entanglements

A 29-year-old woman named Pooja Jatav from Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, has been arrested in connection with the murder of her mother-in-law, Sushila Devi, in a case that has stunned the local community and triggered widespread discussion on social media.

The incident occurred on June 24 in the Kumhariya village under Tahrauli police station. During the investigation, police uncovered disturbing details of a complex and troubling family dynamic that eventually led to the murder.

Multiple Relationships and Murders

According to police, Pooja was initially married to one of Sushila Devi's sons, who was allegedly shot and killed under suspicious circumstances. Following his death, Pooja entered a live-in relationship with her brother-in-law, Kalyan Singh. After Kalyan’s death, she reportedly began living with another brother-in-law, who was already married. The relationship created tension in the household, particularly with his wife, who eventually moved back to her maternal home.

Police say that Pooja had a child from this relationship and began expressing interest in selling a portion of the family's ancestral land to settle in Gwalior. While her brother-in-law and father-in-law agreed, her mother-in-law Sushila strongly opposed the move.

Plot to Murder Mother-in-Law

Angered by Sushila’s resistance, Pooja allegedly conspired with her sister Kamla alias Kamni and Kamla’s boyfriend Anil Verma to carry out the murder. The group reportedly planned and executed the killing, after which they looted jewellery worth nearly ₹8 lakh and fled the scene.

Pooja and her sister were arrested soon after and sent to jail. Anil remained absconding until Tuesday night, when police located him on his way to sell the stolen valuables. In an attempted escape, Anil reportedly fired at the police. He was injured in retaliatory fire and is currently undergoing treatment at the medical college. Police recovered a pistol, jewellery, and a bike from his possession.

Motive and Confession

During interrogation, Pooja reportedly admitted to the relationship with both her brother-in-laws and to the long-standing family tensions. According to her, the decision to kill her mother-in-law was driven by land disputes and a desire for financial independence. The family owns 16 bighas of land, and Pooja claimed she wanted to sell a portion to secure a better future.