A woman who was presumed dead and whose family had performed her last rites 18 months ago has returned alive, leading to a shocking turn of events in Madhya Pradesh’s Mandsaur district.
The woman, identified as Lalita Bai, appeared at the police station and confirmed that she was alive. Her reappearance has raised serious questions as four people were convicted of her alleged murder.
According to Lalita’s father, Ramesh Nanuram Banchhada, the family had identified a mutilated body based on physical markings, including a tattoo on the hand and a black thread tied around the leg. Convinced that it was Lalita, the family performed the last rites.
The police had then registered a murder case and arrested four accused for her alleged murder – Imran, Shahrukh, Sonu, and Ejaz – who were later sent to jail.
However, after nearly 18 months, Lalita returned to her village. Her father, shocked to see her alive, immediately took her to the police station and informed the authorities.
Speaking about her disappearance, Lalita revealed that she had gone with Shahrukh to Bhanupara. After staying there for two days, she was allegedly sold to another man named Shahrukh for Rs 5 lakh. She claimed to have lived in Kota for one and a half years before finding an opportunity to escape and return to her village. She also provided documents such as her Aadhaar and Voter ID to confirm her identity.
Lalita also had two children who were overjoyed to see their mother alive.
Gandhi Sagar police station in-charge Taruna Bhardwaj confirmed that Lalita had visited the station a few days ago to report that she was alive. The police verified her identity through neighbours and family members, who confirmed that she was indeed the same Lalita. The authorities have informed senior officials and the Thandla police station about the development.
