Kolkata, Aug 11 (IANS) The recovery of the bodies of an unmarried couple from a house in Birbhum district's Suri triggered a stir in the area on Tuesday morning. The body of a young man was found hanging inside the house of a 17-year-old girl whom he was reportedly planning to marry, while the girl's body was found lying on a bed.
The incident took place on Monday night in Deshalpur village under Suri police station, according to the police. The deceased man was identified as Sheikh Imran, a resident of Gopalpur village in the same police station area. He had reportedly been in a long-term relationship with the 17-year-old girl from Deshalpur.
According to local residents, the couple wanted to get married and discussions regarding their marriage had taken place between the two families. However, Imran's family was reportedly against the relationship.
Locals alleged that opposition to their marriage may have led the couple to take the extreme step. However, the police said the exact circumstances surrounding the deaths were yet to be established.
According to preliminary information, Imran had gone to the girl's house on Monday night. On Tuesday morning, family members and neighbours reportedly found the house locked and received no response from inside. The door was subsequently broken open, following which Imran's body was found hanging inside the house. The girl's body was found on the bed.
The police, during the examination, found certain marks around the girl’s neck.
The Suri police reached the spot after being informed about the incident and recovered both bodies. They were taken to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared them dead. The bodies have been sent for autopsy, and the police said the exact cause and circumstances of death would be determined after the post-mortem examination.
A senior officer of Birbhum district police said, "The bodies of the couple were recovered this morning. Family members of both have been informed about the incident. Both the bodies have been sent for autopsy. We are awaiting its report. Preliminary investigation reveals that both might have died by suicide. However, an investigation has been launched to find out whether they committed suicide or whether there was any foul play involved."
Investigators are also examining whether anyone else was involved in the deaths or whether the couple was allegedly instigated or pressured by others. No arrests or detentions have been reported so far.
--IANS
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