Keonjhar, Dec 19: In a shocking development, the male friend of a Keonjhar Government Women’s College guest lecturer, Priyanka Das, who was found dead under mysterious circumstances, has been arrested for his suspected involvement in her death.

Rudra Narayan Mishra, the 45-year-old male friend, was taken into custody after murder allegations were made against him by Priyanka’s fraternal uncle, Hemendra Prasad Das. According to Hemendra, Mishra had expressed his intention to marry Priyanka 15 days ago, but she had refused due to the age difference. Mishra allegedly threatened to kill her if she did not accept his proposal.

Hemendra revealed that Priyanka’s body showed signs of severe injury, with marks on her neck, chest, and legs, and her legs were reportedly tied. She was believed to have been strangled to death.

Priyanka, a 24-year-old Home Science lecturer, had been living in a rented house in Keonjhar. Mishra reportedly took Priyanka's body to the Keonjhar District Headquarters Hospital, where she was declared dead. Mishra had initially informed Priyanka's family, pretending to be her colleague, claiming she had fallen and died while locking her door.

Police, suspecting Mishra’s involvement, pursued him and arrested him for questioning. Following legal procedures, he was forwarded to the court, and the investigation is underway.