TIRUVALLA: At their age, forget and forgive could have been the more pragmatic option. But the apparent dispute over a property between 72-year-old John and 97-year-old Sosakkutty Avira took a ghastly turn on Friday at Thelliyoor near Vennikkulam, Pathanamthitta.
A verbal spat between them ended when John, in an inebriated state, allegedly murdered Sosakkutty, hitting on her head with a sharp object.
Police arrested John, Valakkuzhi Kothaplakkal, a relative of the victim, in connection with the incident. According to the police, the victim, Sosakkutty of Kannankara House, Vallikkala, Thelliyoor, around 15 km from Tiruvalla, had been residing alone.
She had given away her properties to some of her relatives. John, son in law of her sister, had been constantly demanding a share of the property but she refused to give properties to him. John, his wife and children have been reportedly taking care of the old woman.
John, who came to her residence on Friday night, had a verbal spat with her and hit on her head with a sharp object, according to statements given by local residents to police. Sosakkutty succumbed to injuries.
Police said John was in an inebriated state when he came to the victim’s house.
“The real cause behind the murder has not been ascertained yet. However, preliminary investigation reveals that John committed the murder over a property dispute. The interrogation is under way,” said police.