In a chilling and meticulously premeditated act, a former IT professional in Bengaluru allegedly planned for months before shooting his wife multiple times in broad daylight, police said, describing the crime as deliberate and carefully orchestrated. The shocking incident took place on Tuesday in the Industrial Area of Rajajinagar, leaving the local community stunned.

The Incident

The accused, identified as Balamurugan, 45, reportedly fired five rounds at his wife, Bhuvaneshwari, 39, killing her instantly. Police said three bullets struck her head, while one hit her hand and another her back. Following the attack, Balamurugan walked into the Magadi Road police station and surrendered, offering no apparent remorse. “She should have been punished the same way,” he allegedly told the authorities, according to police sources.

The attack unfolded in broad daylight in a public industrial area, underscoring the audacity and planning involved. Police said the scene was secured promptly, and the weapon used—a country-made pistol—along with two magazines, was seized.

Planning and Preparation

Investigators revealed that Balamurugan had resigned from his IT job in Whitefield several months earlier and harbored growing suspicions about his wife. The police believe he spent around four months planning the murder, including researching methods online and watching videos on how to commit homicide and ensure accurate shooting.

The firearm, purchased illegally in Bihar for ₹80,000, played a central role in the crime. Police said that Balamurugan had traveled to Bihar in July last year, acquired the weapon, learned to operate it, and then returned to Bengaluru. The meticulous preparation indicates that the crime was well thought-out, rather than impulsive, authorities noted.

Background and Marital Tensions

The couple had been married since 2011 but had been living separately for over one and a half years due to ongoing marital disputes. Balamurugan reportedly suspected his wife’s loyalty, and investigators believe the immediate trigger for the attack was a legal notice for divorce recently served by Bhuvaneshwari.

Police inspector GB Raju of the Magadi Road station said, “His wife was living separately with her children due to family disputes. She had sent a notice to the court seeking divorce. Balamurugan admitted during interrogation that he had murdered his wife for this reason.”

According to her brother, Prakash, the family had long been aware of the tensions in the marriage. After Balamurugan quit his job, Bhuvaneshwari became the sole breadwinner, managing both her professional responsibilities and household. Prakash added that Balamurugan had frequently engaged in arguments over minor issues and had previously attempted to stab her, signaling a history of violence and threats.

Police Investigation

Balamurugan has been placed in 14 days of police custody as the investigation unfolds. Authorities are collecting call detail records and other evidence to trace his movements, particularly related to his travels to Bihar and acquisition of the firearm.

The police are also probing:

• The full extent of premeditation and planning for the crime.
• The illegal procurement of the pistol and potential accomplices.
• Other circumstances surrounding the attack to determine if additional charges may apply.

The case has drawn attention due to the careful planning involved, the public nature of the crime, and the illegal acquisition of the weapon, all pointing to a high degree of deliberation.

Family Impact

The brutal killing has left the couple’s two children, aged 13 and 4, motherless, with their family seeking justice. Bhuvaneshwari’s brother emphasized the trauma inflicted on the family and the need for the police to ensure strict action against the accused.

Court Proceedings

Balamurugan was produced before a local court on Wednesday, where he was remanded for continued investigation. Police confirmed that proceedings are ongoing, with multiple angles being explored to ensure a thorough examination of all circumstances surrounding the murder.

Broader Context

The case has highlighted the dangers of domestic disputes escalating into violent crime, particularly when combined with premeditation and access to illegal firearms. Authorities have noted that vigilance, reporting of prior threats, and stricter monitoring of firearms are crucial to preventing such tragedies.

Investigators said that the level of planning and execution in this case is rare and represents a serious breach of law, with significant implications for public safety, particularly in urban areas where such acts can occur in highly visible, populated settings.

The police reiterated that they are committed to bringing the accused to justice, fully investigating the chain of events leading to the murder, and examining any links to broader criminal activity, including the illegal arms network in Bihar.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of early intervention in domestic disputes, awareness of warning signs of spousal violence, and legal recourse to prevent the escalation of conflicts to fatal outcomes.