Retired Scientist Allegedly Kills Wife, Arrested by Police

A 76 year old retired man has been arrested for allegedly smothering his 63 year old wife to death inside their apartment in Bengaluru’s Whitefield area.

The incident occurred on the morning of Wednesday, February 18, at a senior living community known as The Virtuoso in Bommenahalli. According to police, the suspect, identified as Nageshwar Rao, a former team leader at the Indian Space Research Organisation, used a bath towel to suffocate his wife, Sandhya Shri, while she was preparing lunch in the kitchen around 10:15 am.

Investigators said that after the woman collapsed, Rao reportedly sat beside her body for about 20 minutes before calling a neighbour. During the call, he allegedly told the neighbour that he had killed his wife. Initially believing it was a joke, the neighbour reportedly rushed to the apartment after Rao repeated the claim.

Upon arrival, the neighbour found Sandhya lying motionless on the floor and immediately contacted a doctor within the apartment complex. The senior living facility has round the clock medical support due to the large number of elderly residents. The attending doctor examined Sandhya and declared her dead before informing the police.

When officers arrived at the scene, Rao was reportedly seated calmly on the sofa and allegedly confessed to the act. According to police, he stated, “Yes, I killed her. I may not live more than three to four years from now. Who will look after her after my death? We do not have close relatives in Bengaluru.”

However, when further questioned by senior officers about his exact motive, Rao reportedly responded with a blank expression and did not provide additional clarification.

Police sources also revealed that Rao is currently undergoing treatment for undisclosed psychological issues.

The couple, originally from Andhra Pradesh, had purchased their flat in the senior living community three years ago. Their only daughter, who resides in the United States, has been informed of the tragic incident.

Rao has since been arrested and charged with murder. Investigations into the case are ongoing.