Man Kills Wife in Prayagraj, Tells Sons Got Lost in MahaKumbh
A Delhi man killed his wife during their Mahakumbh trip in Prayagraj, confessing to a pre-planned murder over marital disputes, and was arrested within 48 hours.
A shocking incident came to light during the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj, where a man allegedly killed his wife in a pre-planned manner. The accused, Ashok Balmiki from Delhi, was arrested by the police within 48 hours of the crime.
What Happened?
On 17th February 2025, Ashok Balmiki (48) and his wife Meenakshi (40) from Delhi’s Trilokpuri visited Prayagraj to take a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam during the Mahakumbh Mela. Ashok even shared photos and videos of their visit on social media.
The couple checked into a homestay in the Jhunsi area on 18th February. The owner rented them a room for Rs 500 but did not ask for their identity proof. The next morning, the owner found Meenakshi’s body in the bathroom with her throat slit and informed the police.
How Was the Crime Solved?
Meenakshi’s photo was circulated on social media and in newspapers. Her brother, Pravesh Kumar, saw the photo and, along with her two sons, Ashwani and Adarsh, traveled to Prayagraj on 21st February. They identified her body at the mortuary.
The police grew suspicious of Ashok after the sons revealed that he had told them Meenakshi went missing during the Kumbh Mela. Using CCTV footage and a phone call from the sons, the police traced and arrested Ashok. He confessed to the crime, admitting he killed Meenakshi with a sharp weapon in the bathroom and fled the scene.
Why Did Ashok Kill His Wife?
Ashok told the police that he had planned the murder for three months. He was tired of constant fights with Meenakshi over his affair with another woman. He chose a lodge where no identity proof was required, making it easier to commit the crime and escape. After killing Meenakshi, he dumped the blood-stained clothes and the knife in a dustbin at the mela area.
A Tragic Reminder
This heartbreaking case highlights the hidden struggles in personal relationships and the devastating consequences of unresolved conflicts. The police solved the case within 48 hours, but the incident has left many in shock.
