Man arrested for killing elderly woman in Tiruvannamalai

A 30-year-old construction worker was arrested by Polur police in Tiruvannamalai on Sunday for allegedly killing an elderly woman who had allegedly stopped providing him with free food.

Police said the arrested person was identified as R. Murthy, a daily wage labourer. Kurban B. Yasoda (62) and Murthy belong to Ezhuvambadi village near Polur town of the district.

Initial investigation revealed that Yasoda had been living with her son Venu, a mechanic in the village, after her husband died years ago. Murthy was a neighbor who lived alone after his family abandoned him. Yasoda has been providing free meals to Murthy for the last few years. Recently Murthy was addicted to alcohol and often quarreled with Yasoda’s son Venu over trivial matters.

Police said Venu asked his mother not to give food to Murthy anymore. An agitated Murthy quarreled with Yasoda for not giving him food. Murthy allegedly stabbed her in anger while returning home on Sunday.

Police said residents and neighbors of the area raised alarm and informed Polur police. A case was registered. Murthy was arrested and sent to the Central Jail in Vellore. Additional investigation is ongoing.