Nagpur: A 27-year-old woman was allegedly murdered by her husband in Kamptee on Friday evening after an ongoing marital dispute reportedly escalated into a fatal attack. The incident occurred in a narrow lane near the bustling weekly Friday market, triggering panic among residents and traders.

The deceased has been identified as Manju Sandeep Pachare (27). Her husband, Sandeep Pachare (29), a native of Yavatmal district, is accused of stabbing her to death. The Old Kamptee Police have registered a case against him and launched a search operation to trace and arrest him.

According to police sources, the couple had been married for nearly four years. Their relationship had reportedly become strained due to frequent quarrels, allegedly linked to Sandeep’s drinking habits. Manju had returned to her parental home in Kamptee and was reportedly seeking to separate from her husband.

Police said that at around 6 pm on Friday, Manju was on her way to the weekly market when Sandeep allegedly intercepted her in a lane connecting to the busy market area. An argument reportedly ensued, during which he allegedly attacked her with a knife and stabbed her multiple times.

Manju suffered severe injuries and collapsed at the spot. Her death in the crowded market area sent shockwaves through the locality and created an atmosphere of fear and chaos among onlookers.

As additional police personnel had already been deployed in Kamptee for Moharram security arrangements, officers responded quickly to the scene. Senior officials, including Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone VI) Sandeep Pakhale, visited the spot and supervised the initial investigation.

Police carried out the spot panchnama and sent the body to the Regional Government Hospital, Kamptee, for post-mortem examination. A case of murder has been registered, and efforts are underway to apprehend the absconding accused. Further investigation is in progress.