Meerut: What was initially believed to be a tragic death from a snakebite has turned into one of Uttar Pradesh’s ( UP) most chilling murder cases. Police in Meerut have alleged that a private school operator was murdered in a meticulously planned conspiracy, with his wife, her alleged lover, and two snake charmers using a venomous snake to make the killing appear accidental. The accused were allegedly driven by an illicit relationship and a ₹20 lakh life insurance claim.

The victim, Atul Panwar (35), was found unconscious at his rented home in Hastinapur’s J-Block Colony on Friday morning. His wife, Damini, initially told police that Atul had died after being bitten by a snake while sleeping. A live snake was reportedly found near the bed, reinforcing the claim of an accidental death. However, the victim’s family immediately alleged foul play, prompting a detailed investigation.

Family’s suspicion leads to shocking breakthrough

Atul’s father, Ajab Singh, accused his daughter-in-law of orchestrating the murder from the outset. Acting on the family’s complaint, police, along with forensic experts, examined the crime scene and questioned those close to the victim.

During the investigation, officers allegedly uncovered evidence pointing to an extramarital affair between Damini and Tushar, a bus driver employed at Atul’s school. Police claim the two conspired to eliminate Atul, whom they considered an obstacle to their relationship.

Police allege husband was drugged before snake attack

According to investigators, the conspirators first mixed sleeping pills into Atul’s milk or food, ensuring he fell into a deep sleep. Tushar then allegedly sought the help of two local snake charmers, identified as Sonu and Uday Kumar, who procured a highly venomous krait.

Police allege that while Atul was unconscious, the snake was released onto his bed and made to bite him. The reptile was left inside the room to create the impression that the death was the result of a natural snakebite.

Insurance angle emerges

Investigators have also revealed that the accused allegedly planned to claim ₹20 lakh from Atul’s life insurance policy after his death. Police believe the murder was motivated by both the alleged affair and financial gain.

Fabricated story unravelled

Police said Damini had allegedly fabricated a story to avoid suspicion. She claimed that because of the summer heat, she had slept in another room with the couple’s six-year-old son. According to her statement, she returned the next morning with tea and found Atul lying unconscious, after which she raised an alarm. Neighbours rushed in, and Atul was taken to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

Love marriage ends in murder probe

Atul and Damini had reportedly married for love in 2019 despite family opposition and had jointly established Krishna Kids Public School in Hastinapur. Tushar had recently joined the institution as a school bus driver, where police say the alleged affair developed.

Police have arrested Damini, Tushar and the two alleged snake charmers, while further investigation is underway. Authorities are also awaiting forensic and post-mortem reports to strengthen the prosecution’s case.