28-year-old woman killed in brutal attack by mother-in-law after dispute over tea

A shocking incident of domestic violence was reported from Nilambur on Monday morning, where a 28-year-old woman was allegedly hacked to death by her elderly mother-in-law following a quarrel at home.

The deceased, identified as Rajila , wife of Sunil Babu , was attacked at their residence in Koottampara near Nilambur . Police said the accused, Shanta (70), allegedly assaulted her daughter-in-law with a machete following an argument reportedly over serving tea . Although alarming, machetes are commonly kept in many rural homes as utility tools for cutting firewood, clearing vegetation, harvesting crops, chopping coconuts, and other domestic or farm work. Authorities allege that in this case, the everyday tool was used during a sudden escalation of a domestic dispute, turning it into a deadly weapon.

Investigators said the dispute began as a routine domestic disagreement but escalated into violence within minutes. During the heated exchange, Shanta allegedly picked up the sharp weapon and attacked Rajila multiple times , inflicting severe injuries.

The victim’s young children were present in the house at the time and reportedly tried to stop the assault but were unable to do so. Hearing their cries, neighbours rushed to the house and shifted Rajila to a nearby hospital. However, she succumbed to her injuries shortly after admission.

Police said Rajila’s husband was not at home when the incident occurred. The accused was taken into custody soon after the attack, and her formal arrest was recorded following interrogation.

A case has been registered under Section 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) , which pertains to murder. Officials stated that further questioning is underway to determine the exact sequence of events and whether there were prior disputes between the two.

Preliminary findings suggest that what began as a trivial domestic disagreement over household chores spiralled into a fatal act of violence. Police said the investigation is ongoing.