New Edition of Assam's Infamous Dhubri Murder Case Released

The chilling true-crime account of the Dhubri murder case has returned to shelves with a new edition. This book chronicles the infamous 1970 case involving former judge Upendra Nath Rajkhowa, who murdered his wife and daughters. With contributions from notable journalist Nirod Chowdhury, the book not only revisits the shocking events but also reflects on the journalistic practices of the time. Available at bookstores across Assam, this edition serves as a historical document and a reminder of a dark chapter in the state's history. Discover the details of this haunting case and its impact on Assam's collective memory.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 25, 2026, 17:54 IST

A Chilling True-Crime Narrative Returns

The re-publication revisits a landmark criminal case and a defining chapter in Assam's journalism. (AT Photo)

Guwahati, June 25: A gripping true-crime narrative from Assam has made its way back to readers with a newly released edition.

Dhubrir Hatyakanda aru Rajkhowa r Bichar, which details the notorious 1970 Dhubri murder case involving former District and Sessions Judge Upendra Nath Rajkhowa, was reissued in May 2026 after being out of print for nearly ten years.

Authored by Hiranya Kumar Barma and featuring contributions from esteemed journalist Nirod Chowdhury, this book was initially launched in December 2016.

Due to its sustained appeal among both readers and scholars, Sahitya Prakash, Tribune Press, Guwahati, has released a second edition.

The foundational reports and analyses that comprise this volume were originally published in 1970 in Amar Asom, providing contemporary insights into a crime that still resonates in Assam's collective consciousness.

The Dhubri murder case is regarded as one of the most shocking events in the state's criminal history.

In February 1970, Rajkhowa, a well-respected judicial figure nearing retirement, committed the heinous act of murdering his wife, Putuli Rajkhowa, along with their three daughters—Nirmali, Jonali, and Rupali—within the confines of his official residence in Dhubri.

As per case documentation, his wife and eldest daughter were killed around February 10, while the two younger daughters met their tragic fate on February 25.

In a bid to hide his crimes, Rajkhowa buried their bodies in pits on his property and covered them with flower beds.

For months, he deceived family and friends by claiming that his family had gone away.

However, suspicions from relatives led to a police inquiry. In August 1970, investigators unearthed skeletal remains from the premises, resulting in Rajkhowa's arrest after he attempted to evade capture and take his own life.

After a protracted trial, the Gauhati High Court found him guilty in 1974 of murder and tampering with evidence, sentencing him to death. Following the denial of his mercy plea, Rajkhowa was executed in an Assam prison.

The re-release of Dhubrir Hatyakanda aru Rajkhowa r Bichar allows readers to revisit not just a pivotal criminal case but also the journalistic practices and public discussions that influenced Assam's media landscape during that time.

This book stands as both a historical record and a stark reminder of one of the most tragic episodes in the state's recent past.

The book can be found at various bookstores throughout Assam and at the office of a local media outlet. For further details, please contact 70023 89613.