Karwar
Rafiq Yallur, the man who stabbed 30-year-old Ranjita Bansode to death in Kalammanagara locality of Yallapur town, was found dead on Sunday. He had apparently taken his own life in a nearby forest.
Rafiq attacked Ranjita by slashing her throat with a knife before fleeing the scene. Locals rushed the gravely injured woman to the government hospital in Yallapur for initial treatment, but she succumbed en route to KIMS Hospital in Hubballi for advanced care.
Police promptly visited the spot and launched a manhunt for the absconding Rafiq. His photograph was circulated on social media to seek public assistance in tracing him. The incident, carrying communal sensitivity, created fear in the town. Many condemned the act and demanded swift capture of the perpetrator.
Superintendent of Police Deepan M.N. camped in Yallapur to oversee operations. Hindu organizations had called for a bandh in the town on Sunday. Leaders from some Hindu groups gathered at the police station, insisting they would not leave until Rafiq was apprehended.
Ranjita, a divorcee, had married Sachin Kater from Solapur 12 years ago. The couple had a child, but differences arose after five years, leading her to stay at her sister’s home. She recently obtained a divorce and worked as a cook’s assistant, most lately at a school, to support herself.
Suspicions point to a premeditated plot. Rafiq allegedly harbored intentions to marry Ranjita and grew enraged when she refused. Acquainted from earlier days, he intensified pursuits after her separation from her husband, pressuring her for love and marriage.
Reports suggest he arrived armed with a knife, confronted her, and attacked upon rejection, supporting theories of a planned assault. The two were former classmates, which facilitated natural interactions. Rafiq frequently spoke to her over phone, allegedly coercing affection and attempting to draw her closer.
He used to visit the house where she stayed due to their acquaintance, but Ranjita’s sister opposed this and warned him against coming. Thereafter, Rafiq avoided the residence.
