Chitradurga, Karnataka, August 20, 2025:

The partially burnt body of a 20-year-old college student, who had gone missing earlier this week, was discovered in Chitradurga city on Tuesday, raising serious concerns about the circumstances surrounding her death. Authorities are investigating whether the young woman was sexually assaulted before being murdered.

The victim has been identified as Varshitha, a second-year BA student at the Government Women’s First Grade College. She resided in the SC/ST hostel provided for students in the city. On August 14, Varshitha submitted a leave letter at her hostel and left the premises. Following her departure, she went missing, with her phone switched off and no trace of her movements available to authorities or her family.

According to police officials, the discovery of her body was made after several days of efforts to locate the student. Her parents, Tippeswamy and Jyothi, were preparing to file a missing person complaint when they were informed about the recovery of her body. They were subsequently called to the district hospital to identify their daughter.

Investigating officers stated that they are examining the possibility that Varshitha was sexually assaulted prior to her murder. The police are also looking into the family’s information that she was in a relationship with a man who may have been involved in the incident. The authorities have yet to confirm any arrests, but a case of murder has been officially registered at the Chitradurga Rural Police Station.

Police teams are conducting a detailed investigation, including forensic analysis and questioning of acquaintances, hostel staff, and the victim’s known associates. The aim is to identify all possible suspects and ascertain the exact sequence of events leading to her death. Officers emphasized that the investigation is in its early stages, and the motive and circumstances will be clarified as the inquiry progresses.

The incident has triggered shock and concern among the local community, students, and educational authorities. College officials expressed their condolences to the family while urging students and parents to remain vigilant about personal safety. Local authorities have assured that security measures at student hostels will be reviewed in the wake of the tragedy.

This case highlights the increasing concern over the safety of young women in the region. Police officials have appealed to the public to provide any information that may help in tracing the accused. Law enforcement is also coordinating with district and state-level investigative teams to ensure a swift and thorough probe.

As the investigation continues, the police have stressed that they are following all leads, including digital evidence, CCTV footage, and witness statements. The hunt is on to apprehend the individuals responsible for the crime and bring them to justice.

The family of the victim, while grieving, has urged authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation. Community leaders have called for greater awareness and stronger measures to protect students, particularly women, in hostels and public spaces.

This tragic incident underscores the importance of safety and vigilance, highlighting the need for both preventive measures and rapid response systems to protect vulnerable populations in Karnataka and across India.
Karnataka Student Found Dead

The partially burnt body of 20-year-old Varshitha, a BA student in Chitradurga, was found after she went missing on August 14. Authorities are investigating the possibility of sexual assault before her murder. Her family informed police about her relationship, which may be linked to the case. A murder case has been registered, and police are actively searching for the accused. The incident has shocked the local community and raised concerns about student safety. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.