KOCHI: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing into the death of Sona Eldhose from Kothamangalam is preparing to file a chargesheet dismissing the allegations of ‘love jihad’. The investigation concluded that no attempt of forced religious conversion had taken place and that the suicide of the 23-year-old TTC student occurred after the accused Ramees ended their relationship. However, serious offences under the BNS — including sexual exploitation under the pretext of marriage, abetment of suicide, and physical assault — will remain in the final chargesheet.
“We conducted a detailed probe covering all possible angles, including the alleged attempt of forced conversion, but found no substantial evidence to support it. The chargesheet has been completed and will be submitted before the Kothamangalam Magistrate Court within a week,” said Kothamangalam station house officer Bijoy P T, who is also the investigation officer.
He added that the accused’s parents have been named as co-accused for failing to intervene despite being aware of the harassment and assault faced by the victim. The case includes 55 witnesses, said the SHO.
Meanwhile, Muvattupuzha SHO Basil Thomas, who initially led the probe, said, “I arrested all three accused, including Ramees’ parents, during the early phase of the probe. At that time, the family and relatives had alleged that Sona’s death was linked to religious conversion attempts, and we examined that angle thoroughly.” Earlier, Sona’s mother had filed a complaint to the chief minister and the State Police Chief, seeking an NIA probe and alleged that her daughter’s death was connected to religious conversion attempts.