‘Depression not cause of murder’

The neighbours of the 33-year-old widow, who allegedly murdered her two daughters before attempting suicide in Sion, said that it was not out of depression she took such a drastic step, reports HT Correspondent.

The neighbours of the 33-year-old widow, who allegedly murdered her two daughters before attempting suicide in Sion, said that it was not out of depression she took such a drastic step.

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The accused, Shilpa Joshi had allegedly fed poison to her two daughters Aarushi (3) and Vriddhi (1.5) on Tuesday night. Her husband, Viral had committed suicide three months ago. Shilpa and her children had been residing with her in-laws at Bharati building, Jain Society in Sion.

“It never appeared from her behaviour that Shilpa was depressed or frustrated over her husband’s death. She was very friendly, would interact with us and go out with her daughters,” said Vaishali Gala, Shilpa's neighbour.

A close family friend requesting anonymity said, Shilpa might have taken the drastic step in a fit of rage.

“Shilpa was very stubborn and short tempered. She wanted to have her own way in everything. It was because of this that she was not able to adjust in such a large family at times.”

The Sion police officials said that there was marginal improvement in Shilpa’s health. “However, she is not in a condition to give her statement. The motive would not be clear unless we get to speak to Shilpa,” said Tulshiram Naagre, senior inspector of the Sion police station.

(names of the neighbours have been changed on request)