Homicide in spousal matters: Psychological & Societal Perspectives

A disturbing wave of spousal murders is sweeping through Indian homes.

- DR. S. KRISHNAN, HAPPY KUMARI & MAYUR MAHAJAN

On a honeymoon in Meghalaya, newlywed Raja Raghuvanshi of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, vanished and was later found murdered. In a shocking twist, Meghalaya Police revealed that his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, had allegedly hired contract killers from MP to murder her husband during their trip.

Just weeks earlier, the gruesome killing of Merchant Navy officer Saurabh Rajput in Meerut made headlines. His wife and her partner are accused of stabbing him to death, dismembering the body, and sealing the remains in a drum of cement.

When we think of violent crime, women as perpetrators rarely come to mind. While it is true that women are more often victims of violence than perpetrators, recent cases reveal that some women do cross the line—and when they do, their crimes can be chillingly calculated.

While each case is unique, a clear pattern emerges: planning and determination. These acts are not impulsive; they often involve coercive control and deep-seated psychological issues. Personality disorders, obsessive thinking, delusional beliefs, and lack of empathy all play a role.

There is no standalone data on spousal murders by women. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) tracks "partner killings" under domestic violence but primarily records crimes against women. According to the NCRB's Crime in India 2022 report, cruelty by husbands and relatives accounts for 31.4% of crimes against women—the most reported category. But this masks a growing shadow of violence in the other direction.

Women who kill their spouses are often driven to the brink by pre-existing marital discord, financial or social pressure, extramarital affairs, jealousy, mental health issues, substance abuse, or personality disorders. An emotional breaking point triggers the act.

PSYCHOLOGY OF PLANNED MURDER