Yavatmal Principal Wife Killed Teacher Husband and Throw Body in Jungle with help of Minor Students

The accused, identified as Nidhi Shantanu Deshmukh, principal of Sunrise English Medium School on Darwha Road, was arrested by the Lohara police on Tuesday, May 20. Police have also detained three students for questioning in connection with the case.

The victim, Shantanu Arvind Deshmukh, was a temporary teacher at the same school. According to police, Nidhi and Shantanu had an inter-caste love marriage two years ago. However, soon after their wedding, Shantanu reportedly developed a severe alcohol addiction, which became a constant source of tension in the relationship.

Frustrated and unable to cope with her husband’s addiction, Nidhi allegedly decided to eliminate him. On the night of May 13, she reportedly poisoned Shantanu at their residence. After keeping the body at home overnight, she attended school the next day as usual. Later, she confided in three Class IX students who were attending her private tuition classes and sought their help in disposing of the body.

That night, with the help of the students, Nidhi transported Shantanu’s body to the Chausala forest. To prevent identification, they doused the body in petrol and set it on fire.

Local authorities discovered a partially charred body in the forest, sparking panic and speculation. The case was handed over to the Local Crime Branch by Superintendent of Police Kumar Chinta. During the investigation, it was revealed that Shantanu had been missing for several days. His friends were called to identify the remains, which were confirmed to be his.

When questioned, Nidhi initially denied involvement, but under sustained interrogation, the truth emerged. As investigators pieced together the sequence of events, it became clear that Nidhi was the prime suspect.

The case has sent shockwaves through the local community, especially due to the involvement of minors in the crime. Authorities are currently investigating the extent of the students' involvement and whether they acted under duress or manipulation.

Further legal action is underway, and the detained minors are being dealt with under the Juvenile Justice Act.