A 25-year-old software engineer, Yashas, has been arrested for allegedly stabbing his 33-year-old lover, Harini, to death in an OYO hotel in the Kengeri area of Bengaluru after she reportedly ended their relationship.
The crime took place on June 6 at a hotel in Poorna Prajna Layout. Staff members raised the alarm on June 8 after noticing a foul smell coming from one of the rooms. Upon entering, they discovered Harini, a mother of two, lying dead with multiple stab wounds.
According to the Subramanyapura Police, Yashas and Harini had checked into the hotel on June 4. Investigators say that a confrontation occurred on June 6 when Harini expressed her desire to end the relationship due to personal pressures, including objections from her family. In a fit of rage, Yashas allegedly stabbed her 17 times with a knife before fleeing the scene.
CCTV footage from the hotel confirmed that Yashas was the last person seen leaving the room. He was apprehended shortly after the discovery of Harini’s body.
A murder case has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, and police have recovered the murder weapon. Forensic investigations are currently underway to gather further evidence.
South Division Deputy Commissioner of Police Lokesh B Jagalasar told NDTV, “The woman wanted to end the relationship and avoid contact. The accused, driven by anger and jealousy, committed the crime.”
Sources indicate that the relationship between Harini and Yashas had been brief—just over a month—and unstable. Harini had reportedly tried to distance herself from Yashas as their relationship had begun to affect her family life.
Social media users have expressed outrage over the incident, citing it as another tragic example of obsession-driven violence. Many called for stricter safety protocols and background checks in budget hotels.
Authorities are now investigating whether the murder was premeditated and if Yashas acted alone. The case has brought attention to rising relationship-related crimes and the need for improved safety standards in the hospitality sector.