Tragic Incident in Keonjhar: Young Couple Found Dead in Suspected Suicide

In a heartbreaking incident in Keonjhar, a young couple was discovered dead in what appears to be a suicide following domestic disputes. Raibu and Gouri Munda, married for a year and a half, left behind their five-month-old daughter. The couple's ongoing arguments, reportedly over suspicions of infidelity, culminated in this tragic event. Villagers found their bodies hanging from a tree, prompting an investigation by local authorities. As the community grapples with this loss, there are calls for support for the orphaned child. The final determination of the cause of death awaits the post-mortem report.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 1, 2025, 09:26 IST

Couple's Death Raises Concerns

Keonjhar: A tragic incident unfolded in Keonjhar district where a young couple reportedly took their own lives by hanging after a dispute in a forested area near Jogimatha, Mundasahi village, as confirmed by local authorities on Saturday.

The individuals involved have been identified as Raibu Munda, aged 22, and his 20-year-old wife, Gouri Munda. The precise circumstances surrounding their deaths remain unverified.

Initial investigations indicate that ongoing domestic conflicts may have led to this heartbreaking decision, leaving behind their five-month-old daughter. The couple had been married for approximately a year and a half.

Gouri, who hailed from the Pandapada region, had recently given birth to their daughter. Reports suggest that frequent arguments, particularly over suspicions of infidelity and phone calls, contributed to their deteriorating relationship.

In recent times, Gouri had been residing with her brother in the Jogimatha area along with her infant.

The incident reportedly transpired following a fierce argument, after which both individuals destroyed their mobile phones and left their home.

The next morning, villagers stumbled upon their bodies hanging from a tree in the nearby forest and promptly notified the police.

The peculiar nature of the discovery, with both bodies suspended from a single tree, has raised questions. Authorities retrieved the remains and sent them for a post-mortem examination at the district hospital in Keonjhar before returning them to their families.

A case (38/2025) has been registered by the Sadar police based on a complaint from Raibu’s younger brother, Rajuka Munda, as stated by IIC Amit Kumar Bhuyan.

While the initial assessment points to a domestic dispute as the cause of death, the final conclusions will hinge on the post-mortem findings. As of now, no formal complaint has been lodged by Gouri’s family.

In the meantime, the couple's infant daughter has been left without parents. Local community members have urged the district administration to take necessary measures for her welfare.