Cuttack: Cuttack Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Rishikesh Dnyandeo Khilari on Tuesday said that investigators have seized significant digital evidence, including WhatsApp chats and call records, in connection with the death of MBBS student Chandrika Hembram.
The case pertains to the death of the 28-year-old third-year MBBS student of Fakir Mohan Medical College and Hospital in Balasore, whose body was recovered from the sand bed of the Kathajodi river near Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Setu under Barang police station limits in Cuttack on June 4.
Addressing the media, the DCP said the Barang police had registered a case on June 4, following which multiple teams were formed, including the Investigating Officer (IO), to carry out a detailed probe. One team was also sent to Udala in Mayurbhanj district as part of the investigation.
He said the victim’s parents and relatives have been questioned and their statements recorded.
According to the police, a detailed examination of digital communications between the victim and the accused is underway, including WhatsApp chats and voice call records from the days leading up to the incident. The seized chats are being analysed as part of the investigation.
“The chats indicate that the victim was under mental pressure and had mentioned taking extreme steps due to the accused’s behaviour,” the DCP said, adding that conversations involving the accused’s mother have also provided important leads.
Meanwhile, the Commissionerate Police on June 13 arrested a 29-year-old Odisha Tax and Accounts Service (OTAS) trainee for allegedly abetting the suicide of Chandrika Hembram.
The accused, identified as Bhimsen Prasad Tudu of Mayurbhanj district, was arrested after an intensive investigation and a multi-state search operation. Police said he had initially fled to Jharkhand after a case was registered but was later apprehended from his native place.
The victim’s family has alleged foul play and initially claimed it was a murder. However, police have registered a case of abetment of suicide and said further investigation is underway.
Chandrika’s mother, Hiramani Hembram, has alleged that her daughter was subjected to harassment and emotional distress due to relationship issues, including the accused’s alleged involvement with another woman, which she claimed pushed the victim into severe psychological distress.
