This story is based on a real life incident which happened in the 1980s. Those were the days when working women’s hostels had mushroomed and were instrumental in encouraging young girls to venture out into the world of work outside their cities and states. The incident narrated through this story is a testimony to the vulnerabilities faceTd by these young girls in hostels. This incident provides learnings for us even in the current times too.

Who killed Nutan?

Sister Hilda walked into the small dining room and mentally noted the girls who were sitting in and waiting for prayers before they start their dinner . There were 7 and she remembered that Jatinder had gone home . Before she  could identify the missing two, Terry walked in hurriedly. Terry you are late, do this one more time this month and you will end up packing your bags  This is a working women’s hostel and we are bound by certain norms. Where is Christine ? asked Sr Hilda. Shivani replied saying , sister she has a headache and said wont be eating dinner . I think she stuffed herself with samosas at work.

Dinner finished and the girls went briefly to the recreation room. There was chatter all around as the sisters and the girls together, watched Television . Those were days of limited entertainment and the idiot box was rather intelligent . It had not begun to lose its sensibilities . Christine also came down with a scarf tied tightly around her head . She sat next to Sr Hilda and asked her for a medicine for headache . Sister replied in a stern voice – every month you have this problem Christine, you better consult the doctor. Take it from me before you go to bed, she added.

Just then the house telephone rang . Sr Merina went to get it in the hall and came back quickly announcing to the sisters that father will be half an hour late in coming for Mass tomorrow at the hostel chapel (a small place of Christian workshop – similar to church ) .

The girls went to their rooms at 8pm and Sister Hilda and Sr Merina went to the first floor to check each of the rooms. This was their daily routine. There were 3  big double rooms and one faced the front while two faced the backside . A small pantry was there with a kettle just in case anyone needed a cup of tea or some hot water . The pantry therefore had limited use, as no cooking was allowed .

All the three doors were locked from inside but there was a  faint sound of music coming from Nutan and Jatinder’s room facing the backside . Sr Hilda knocked and Nutan opened the door inviting the sisters . Don’t keep the tape recorder on for long . Go to sleep now. Oh sister when Jatinder is here she puts all Punjabi songs . But since I am alone for a few days , I am enjoying some soulful melodies , she said smilingly. That I can understand said Sr Hilda and slowly both the nuns began to walk out. As they were  walking out Sr Hilda noticed that the balcony was slightly open and told Nutan – please close the balcony before you sleep. Yes sister i will . just enjoying the cool breeze for some time since the AC is not working.

Sr Merina quickly interrupted and said , I am sorry Nutan the electrician has gone to his village and will take another two days . For safety sake we don’t want to get a new person inside. Nutan replied smilingly – no problem sister it is only March and this breeze will cool the room and then I will close and sleep as usual. Ok lock the room door from inside said Sr Merina as they  walked out. This girl is no trouble, remarked Sister Hilda . Jatinder her room mate was a bit difficult to handle as she would argue on everything. Jatinder’s father was not well so she had left for home a day back.

The Nuns then went to the terrace dormitory which had four beds  and a big cooler . There was some loud chatter going on and they knocked . Christine opened the door in her pyjamas and said – very timely sister please tell these girls to stop talking and go to sleep. I have just had medicine. Sr Hilda said in mock anger – girls you have to have compassion for the sick, please let her rest . Gouri smiled and said, sister she is the trouble maker who keeps on chattering till 10. Today she has a headache so wont allow us to talk also. Ok goodnight girls , lock the door and Christine and Terry the mass is at 6:30 , half hour later, if you can make it please come. As Christians it is good to attend mass daily if you can . Saying that they moved out hearing the door being locked behind them.

They went down the stairs to the big dormitory  near the small chapel near the hall. Sr Isabel was making her bed. All 3 sisters slept in this room together . The two house helps, Lata and Asha were peacefully sleeping in the hall.

The Incident at the hostel

Nest day the 6:30 am mass had just began, when Shivani came rushing into the chapel and whispered into sister Hilda’s ears. Not wanting to disturb the holy mass,  Sr walked out and and rushed to the first floor . The other girls on the floor were already there. Sister,  Manju began , Nutan wakes up in no time when we wake her . Today Shivani’s toothpaste had finished and as Nutan used her brand she went to borrow from the latter. But she knocked so many times and there is no reply. Wait I will go and ring the alarm from our bedroom said Sr Hilda as she rushed down. There was an alarm which was connected (for any emergency) to all the rooms except the hall and the chapel. Similarly each of the hostel rooms had a bell which could raise an alarm in the sisters bedroom. Sr Hilda rang the alarm several times and rushed upstairs but there was no response from Nutan’s room .

In panic Sr Hilda rushed back to the chapel where the priest had just finished mass. She told him what had happened and Father James rushed upstairs with his assistant Paulose.   There could be a medical emergency  he murmured and nobody will be available just now . With a lot of effort , hammering, pushing and banging they broke upon the door.

The girls and sisters screamed when they saw Nutan sprawled on the bed with her night dress torn at places .  Seeing the pitiful and sensitive sight, Father James and his assistant moved out . Sr Merina who was a para – medical asked all the girls to stay away and went close to Nutan to check on her. She looked at Sr Hilda and nodded . She is no more sister. And there are strangulation marks on her neck. Hearing this the girls howled and Terry fainted . Christine and Shivani attended to her .

Father James suggested that the Lajpat Nagar police station be  informed immediately . Move out  said Sr Merina , now the door won’t close so just stay away from Nutan’s room. All of you change  your night clothes and come down to the hall and wait till the police comes . Sr Hilda rushed down to the telephone to inform the police and  Nutan’s parents in Jaipur .The house waited in mournful silence for the police to come.

A case is registered

Inspector Pradeep was enjoying his morning cup of tea at home when his house phone rang . Mallick the hawaldar from the Lajpat Nagar police station informed him of that a murder had taken place in a women’s hostel in Lajpat Nagar. Pradeep immediately rushed to change into his uniform informing his wife Vinita that he had to rush. Vinita was really cross with him as she was making his favorite south Indian breakfast and also wanted to discuss her sisters marriage ceremony with Pradeep. She wished this police station shut down for 2 days to get the much needed peace. But Pradeep had made himself scarce at home in no time.

Pradeep arrived at the hostel and walked into the hall where the whole household was gathered . He asked for the ‘in charge’ and Sister Hilda announced that she was the superior of the house . She briefed him about the course of events and also informed him of the number of hostelers , the presence of the priest etc .

Pradeep then proceeded to the first floor along with Chandini, his lady constable to see the room where the incident happened. After confirming that no one had touched anything, the inspector closely examined the victim from very close quarters . He noted the possible strangulation marks and disheveled clothes and hair. The victim’s torso was on the bed and one leg was hanging  down. The bed was a little larger than a single one, but then the other one in the room was also the same . His eyes roved around the room and saw the small almirah the suitcase and the other bed which looked unslept. The possibility of a struggle was there but it seemed limited to the bed where the victim was lying. Nothing near the door of the bedroom looked disturbed. He then instructed Chandni to arrange for the victim’s body to be taken for post mortem.

Then Pradeep’s eyes turned to the door of the balcony which was not completely shut . He took out his handkerchief and opened it stepping into the small balcony . It overlooked the backlane of a set of houses and below there was a small space which housed the backdoor entrance of the hostel. . The backside wall was broad and scalable and access to the balcony was easy. He went out of the room, near the staircase and called out to Sr Hilda and then went back into the room.

The ambulance had arrived and the victims body was taken away to the hospital for post mortem. Sister , said Pradeep this balcony door , it is open ? Is this the general practice here that girls keep the balcony door open. The previous nights conversation with Nutan ran over Sr Hilda’s head and she quickly related it . Have you found the balcony door opened previously, probed Pradeep. Sr Hilda thought and said all three rooms have balcony and some or the other time we have found all 3 open and always advise the girls to close and sleep , which I think they have followed . It is normally open only till the girls are awake and they are all instructed to lock it before they sleep which we are confident that they have been doing. Besides we have instructed the colony watchman to tell us immediately if any balcony door front or back is found open.

Hmm let us go to the hall and send the priest as he may have other matters to attend. I hope the victims parents are coming and what about her roommate ? I would like to meet her  too. Pradeep spoke briefly to Father James and asked whether he had to seen the victim earlier . I cant remember said the priest , she is not a Christian and would have never come for the daily mass at the chapel. Today, I could not see the face closely as I did not enter the room as there was sensitivity about the condition in which the girl was found.

Does your assistant always accompany you, asked Pradeep? Yes said father James , why ? We need to interrogate all here , so asking just to be sure. His name his Paulose and he regularly accompanies me here and other places. Married with 2 children . Hmm that ‘s fine said Pradeep , you may please leave now .

Pradeep was restless as he had not had any breakfast. He asked Sr Hilda for some toast and tea. Oh sure we are getting some porridge ready for everyone. Please come into the dining room , sister beckoned . Pradeep walked into the dining space where all the girls , except Nutan (and her roommate) was present . Many of them were just pecking at their food. He looked at each girl carefully and at the helper girls too. He turned to look at Sr Hilda and asked- Sister how many of these girls have boyfriends- are you aware? Well to the best of my knowledge none,  as we don’t allow girls who have boyfriends or fiancée’s in town to stay here . No boys are allowed inside at all unless it is for essential services and the residents of the hostel are not allowed late nights or any night outs without permission of local guardian. We have strict rules on these conditions and the girls have to sign an agreement before they give them entry into hostel. If they are found to conceal any information then they will be asked to leave with immediate effect.

Pradeep said to Sr Hilda that he would like to question each resident in the hostel . You can please sit through Sister and anyway Chandni, the lady constable will always be present. Yes we will inform the parents of all girls and then you can proceed, said Hilda . No Sister we don’t have time to loose as any delay in investigations may end up in losing good leads . Meanwhile please carry on the process of informing the parents.

Chapter 3

The Interrogation

A couple of chairs were pulled into the hall and Pradeep and Chandini made themselves comfortable . Nobody was allowed to make phone calls . Jatinder (Nutan’s roommate) was already on her way from Meerut and the victim’s (Nutan’s) parents from Jaipur in Rajasthan.

Terry walked into the hall nervously but Chandini made her comfortable with a smile . Sr Hilda sat on one of the chairs . Pradeep began by asking her name – Teresa Li, she replied . She is of Chinese origin but a Christian from Meghalya said Sr Hilda. Teresa was a beautician and was working in a beauty parlour in Kalkaji. Do you have a boyfriend Teresa? No said Terry fidgeting her legs. Sr Hilda looked at Terry relieved,  but Pradeep was not satisfied and fired a shot in the dark – Who is the young guy who leaves you at the hostel in the evenings ? Terry gulped and said no, I take bus. Chandni intervened and said make sure you don’t hide anything or lie to us – this is a murder case  and if you lie , you will be a strong suspect. This remark unnerved Terry and she said in a small voice- I have a fiancée- Deepak Mehta and that changed the course of the conversation. Sr Hilda was shaken with this information but she hid her feelings well. Inspector Pradeep asked for some pictures of Nutan and Sr Hilda went outside to request the same.

So Teresa said Pradeep , has Deepak come inside the hostel ever , during day or night?  No never said Terry vehemently. He lives (leaves)me outside and a little far from hostel. Leaves you on the front side or back side , persisted Pradeep? Front said Terry confused . Did he know Nutan and did she know him. Yes she knows I have fiancée but not met him. He does not know any names except Christine whom he has met. She avoided looking at Sr Hilda. Do you know who could have killed Nutan? Did Nutan have any boyfriend.  No Sir I not know at all . I am very afraid seeing this killing and her small eyes became even smaller with worry . My parents will be very scared too. She rushed out when asked to leave.

Pradeep had already got to know that Nutan worked for Rhythm Center , the famous music shop in South Extension. While Christine walked in to the hall , there was a lot of commotion outside and Sr Hilda announced that Jatinder had arrived. Christine please wait outside as I would like to talk to Jatinder first, said Pradeep.

Jatinder walked dishevelled and hugged Sr Hilda and started crying . Sister I cant believe this and why , who would do this ? Please sit Jatinder , requested Pradeep. Jatinder contained her tears and sat in front of the police team. Jatinder tell us about yourself ? What do you do ? Sir I am a teacher in Guru Tegh Bahadur School here in Delhi. Why did you go home asked Pradeep ? Sir my father is unwell and admitted in hospital so I had to leave. Did you leave suddenly or was it planned? Sir, my family told me a day later after my father was admitted to hospital and then I took a day or two to go, as I had to inform school and get a replacement for my class.

Jatinder first let us talk about you and then I will ask about Nutan. I hope you will answer everything honestly. You are the one who was staying with Nutan and I believe you both were good friends? Yes Sir, I am , was close to Nutan and I can tell you whatever I know. Pradeep asked – do you have a boyfriend ? No sir said Jatinder looking down. But that is not what we have come to know Jatinder . We are aware that you have a boyfriend , queried Pradeep ? Sir pls don’t tell my parents and sorry sister Hilda , I have a boyfriend and we will be getting married . Hmm did Nutan know about this ? Yes Sir said Jatinder . What is the name of your boyfriend . His name is Rahul Tyagi and he is a contractor. Hmm does he come to meet you nearby ? Yes Sir, Jatinder confessed and Sr Hilda was lost . She was wondering if all the girls in the hostel had boyfriends and they had all lied to her ? Has he met Nutan ? Yes Sir , once in South Extension. I took him to introduce to her in Rhythm center. And then how many more times ? No Sir never again as Nutan was not interested in going out with us . Ok now this is most important Jatinder , has Rahul ever come to your room with or without your permission?

Jatinder was shocked and replied – Sir boys are not allowed in hostel. Well has he ever come without Sisters permission? No Sir not at all ? Has he ever come in when all had gone to sleep in the house ? Sir Nutan stays in my room and she would never allow anything like that . The front door is locked at 8 and nobody goes out or comes in after that. And the back door, asked Pradeep . Sir I don’t know but the backdoor is never in use . It is locked and we have never seen it open. She then looked at Sister enquiringly as if why this question.  Sister Hilda heaved a sigh of relief .

And Sir, I too would not allow such a disgraceful thing. I would never break the hostel rules and Rahul and I are waiting patiently to first tell our parents and then get married. Hmm said Pradeep and asked further – did he know which was your room. Yes Sir he knew that it was one of the back rooms but not which one. Ok please go out and make a call asking Rahul to immediately come here- to the  hostel. Sister he looked at Sr Hilda,  can you make this a special case and allow Rahul in here ? I don’t want to leave the premise yet and since these are youngsters I don’t want to take them to police station. Yes ! nodded Sr Hilda, I will inform my Superior in Lucknow. Just then Jatinder said in a small voice –  Sir my two brothers are coming in the evening to take me back but please don’t tell them about Rahul as I have not told my family yet . Pradeep nodded not knowing whether he would keep the promise. Jatinder went out and came back in 5 minutes saying Sir he is coming.

Asha the hostel help brought in some more tea and biscuits and Pradeep continued . So Jatinder tell us about Nutan? Sir she worked in Rhythm Center as sales girl and was very good at her job. She was highest paid sales person and was even given a free tape recorder in recognition of her hard work. That is the one we play in our room. Did she have a boyfriend asked Chandini? No M’am she always used to say she will marry the person her parents select for her . Sr Hilda heaved a sigh of relief and blessed Nutan. She always knew the girl was a gem. Did she ever mention a boyfriend or someone who was interested in her ? No Sir but there was one of the staff in sales who asked her to go out to Nirulas  one day but Nutan refused. Who was the person asked Pradeep ? Sir I think he was also a sales staff and his name was Arjun something? Hearing this Sr Hilda was even more proud of Nutan and she was determined to help the police in catching the murderer who probably raped the poor girl too. What was baffling was that so much had happened in a quiet night and nobody had come to know ? None of the valuables in the room including the purse was probably not touched. There were forensic experts in the room now and nobody was allowed on the first floor.

When asked about Nutan’s habits, likes and dislikes , Jatinder said Nutan liked soft music and she sent most of her salary home while keeping very less for herself. Jatinder and Nutan had gone out for a movie once . Jatinder confidently said that to the best of her knowledge she had not known that Nutan had any altercation or disagreement with anyone. Yes Sir she would get upset with me because my taste in music was opposite to hers as I like loud music . Yes Nutan was fond of food and reading. Was she distressed or upset in the last few days , asked Pradeep ? Jatinder thought for a while and said – nothing that I can think of . Did you ever discuss Nutan with Rahul your boyfriend ? Sir I don’t know what you are thinking but Rahul has never asked anything about her and neither have I had long discussions . There was never the need. We had so little time together that we had little time to talk about ourselves. Occasionally there was some conversation about Nutan as she was my dear friend and roommate but no detailed discussion. Suddenly loud wails and shouting turned Pradeep’s attention towards the door.

Nutan’s parents and her brother entered the room in distress . Where is my child demanded Nutan’s mother howling at Sr Hilda. We thought this was a safe place . Pradeep beckoned to Chandini who took over and made the parents sit down but the mother was inconsolable.  Ashwin, Nutan’s brother asked Pradeep , has she , was she murdered ? Why , would someone do this , asked her father ? This hostel never told us she had any threats or there was any problem. Sir we are as shocked as you are said Sr Hilda . Your child was one of the best hostelers and it was our privilege to have her . We are heartbroken that this happened to her but even more distressed that such a heinous crime has taken place here on our premises. Inspector Pradeep asked Sr Hilda to let him be alone with Nutan’s parents for some time.

Pradeep and Chandini triangulated all the information they had gathered about Nutan with her family. There was nothing suspicious or even slightly disturbing . Most of the information tallied with what Sr Hilda and the two girls had given. The family was insisting on seeing Nutan as they were in a state of shock. Pradeep told them about the process to be followed during a suspected murder . He asked Sister to make them comfortable and left saying that he will be back in two hours from the hospital and that none of the hostelers should leave the premises . He told Chandini to remain there and inform him as soon as Rahul Tyagi comes . It was already 3 pm and he was sure the post mortem report at least the initial findings would be ready.

Pradeep sipped a cup of chai (tea) while he flipped through the initial post mortem report. So he was right – it was rape and strangulation. Mallick, he called out, please call the working women’s hostel, inform Sr Hilda that post mortem has been completed and the victim’s parents can take her body from the Safdarganj hospital. You please accompany them and make sure that the family does not face any problems. I am rushing back to the hostel. When the forensic report comes , let me know – even though it may be preliminary.

Pradeep had got a call from the hostel that Rahul Tyagi (Jatinder’s boyfriend) had come into the hostel and he also wanted to interrogate Jatinder again. She was the most important link as she was closest the victim – Nutan. The hostel was full with people when he reached there. . Parents of other hostelers had also come in and were  crowding in the hall and the dining room. On seeing Pradeep ,  Chandini saluted him and quickly cleared the hall.

Rahul was summoned inside and Sr Hilda came and sat in. Pradeep looked at the tall lanky youth and asked him- Name ? Sir, I am Rahul Tyagi and I am a contractor. What is your relationship with Jatinder ? Rahul looked straight and said we want to get married but she fears her parents wont agree . Then what will you do asked Pradeep? I don’t know Sir, but we have decided to be together. My parents are aware and they have no objection. Has Jatinder come over to your place ? Yes Sir she has met my parents ? And when do you meet ? Sir , I often pick her from school and drop her here at the hostel. Sr Hilda gulped her breath and was uneasy now. Do you come inside ? Sir this is women’s hostel and they don’t allow entry for men? Today is the first time I have come here . Where do you drop her ? A little far from the front gate . Hmm and why not from the back gate ? He looked puzzled and said Jatinder asked me to leave her there and she always went through the front gate . Do you know there is a back gate , queried Pradeep. No Sir Jatinder has never mentioned and it never occurred to me.

Have you met Nutan ? No , Yes sir Yes , once but very briefly in South Extension where she worked . We asked her out for a burger but she refused . Hmm were you angry when she refused ? Rahul looked surprised and said ‘No’, we did not think much of it . Jatinder has always said she is a shy girl and likes to keep to herself . Hmm what else did she say about Nutan? Not sure what else but Jatinder said she disliked loud music. Do you know which is their room? Yes Sir somewhere on top but which one I don’t know ?

What else did Jatinder tell you about the hostel? Rahul thought for a while and said – it strictly observes time and entry after 7 is not allowed . Night out is permitted only when the local guardian personally calls up Sister incharge. Hmm, said Pradeep – and did you both ever have a night out ? Rahul looked at Sister and then said – no never . We have neither thought about it nor attempted .

Rahul you are very thin, do you exercise , run or do any athletics, hiking ? No Sir, I play badminton but only when I get time . Ok you can go but please remember the case is still ongoing so we can call you for questioning anytime . Please send in Jatinder as you go out . Jatinder came in worried and said Sir,  my brothers are here,  can I go ? No please wait said Pradeep and then looked at Sr Hilda and said please inform her brothers that we are doing routine questioning as Jatinder was closest to victim. Sister Hilda stepped out and came back in soon.

Jatinder the last night that you spent with Nutan- can you tell us the sequence of events . Jatinder thought for a while and said nothing much. When she came back from work I was in the room. As usual she changed and I told her that I was leaving to see my father in hospital the next day  and that a replacement had been found for me in school . And how was Nutan feeling ? Was she scared worried , bothered about anything? No Sir , In the evening we went out to get some food as usual , chatted and she asked if I would tell my parents about Rahul this time ? I said maybe no and then we came back had dinner with others,  watched TV and then slept .

Did you girls sleep with the balcony door open? Jatinder looked at Sister Hilda and said , no Sir we keep it open till we are awake and then close it before we switch off the lights . Are you sure asked Pradeep looking into her eyes ? Never has it been left open ? Sir since the AC has not been working we sometimes leave it open. Sr Hilda realised what a big folly she had committed by not getting in an electrician . She could not blame the girls and they had assumed that all the girls , shut the balcony door when sleeping .

And has any incident happened ever , when the balcony door was open? Jatinder looked surprised and said Sir never and the backdoor is always closed . Who will climb the wall ? But somebody has climbed the wall Jatinder and the post mortem confirms rape and murder . There was a painful expression on Jatinders face and she said Sir , she never had anyone in her life and never ever has she mentioned any arguments or fights with a boy. Ok Jatinder you can go now . Just then Sr Merina walked in and handed a sheaf of papers in a file to Sr Hilda saying that it was for Inspector Pradeep. Pradeep quickly went through the papers and said to Sr Hilda , initial findings show one set of foot print and finger prints which are different from the victim. The police station is matching  the foot prints and finger prints with the criminals on record.

Pradeep then looked at Sr Hilda and said Sr, I am tired and I need some time to think. I will be back tomorrow morning to interrogate the remaining hostelers . Please see no one leaves the premises except Jatinder.  Nutan’s room is sealed . Sr Hilda asked , Inspector we wanted to put some grills on the back wall and were thinking of starting the work tomorrow . Mother Superior has asked me to do that . No said Pradeep please wait till the investigations are over.

He then took leave and went home . It had been a very long tiring day and tomorrow was going to be the same or maybe  even the whole week ?

The clueless Case

Pradeep sat relaxed in his drawing room with his uniform shirt unbuttoned and his young son drawing a picture sitting right next to him. He was tired and also frustrated that he was not able to get any leads. Vinita came and sat next to him with two cups of tea? She looked at Pradeep’s tousled hair and asked – So any leads or are you still groping in the dark ? Vineeta,  I cannot understand he began but before he could say anything Vinita said – Rohan please go and draw in your room. I want to talk something important with your papa. Rohan quietly left the room.

Vinita , a full fledged murder and rape took place in a working women’s hostel where there were other girls on the same floor . Somebody had the courage to scale the back wall and enter the room through the balcony. The balcony doors are usually all closed in summers as the AC is switched on. But this room balcony was open as the AC was not working . I don’t think that any passer-by would have taken such a risky chance ? It has to be somebody who knew that the balcony door would be open and there is only one person in the room . Hmm said Vinita , is there no male at all in the house ? No and even if there was the victim’s room was locked from inside . So the entry looks very much as if it was from outside from the balcony and one set of footprints and finger prints have been found . No boyfriend ever she asked ? Highly unlikely as nobody even had a doubt said Pradeep . Then have dinner and sleep. You said you still have some more hostelers to interrogate ? I wonder why the hostel authorities had not put a grill on the backside wall ?  It is at least one level of hurdle to clear .

Next day Pradeep was all excited . He had a plan and quickly dressed up. Before he could sit down on the dining table for breakfast Vinita handed him a neat tiffin box and a flask. Your breakfast and milk is packed as you are always in a hurry when a case is ongoing and practically eat nothing on the table. When you reach the station and have shouted at two of your constables , then you will have a sense of accomplishment and will have a hearty breakfast. He smiled at her realizing how couples know each other inside out .

At the Police Station he asked Chandini to call in the two constables Ajith and Rupa. Both these constables were excellent at disguise and had worked together & separately to crack many complex cases . They had won many awards for bringing in vital information (while in disguise) and were often loaned to other police stations  on demand.  Both of them were married and had their separate families but worked well as a pair. Ajith and Rupa came in excited as they both loved their disguise work which got them a lot of appreciation. Pradeep looked at them and said – One murder case needs your engagement. The person you have to keep a watch over is Rahul Tyagi. Chandini will explain to you the case and give you his home address. Or wait ! Pradeep looked at Chandini and said should we do Paulose and the priest first ?  No sir only if we don’t get anything on Rahul and others . To me , he seems the most appropriate to follow up on and that guy in Rhythms Center who asked Nutan out ?  Arjun he asked and she nodded . Pradeep thought she made sense.

Over the years he had come to rely on Chandini and she was an excellent assistant . Okay as you say . I will have a quick breakfast he said looking for his tiffin and flask , while you brief these two about Rahul Tyagi. Sir, smiled Chandini, I forgot to mention we have laid out your breakfast in the pantry and you can eat their in peace. Todays newspaper cuttings on the case has also been kept on the table for you . Pradeep thanked her and walked out of the room. This lady constable should get a promotion in the next round . he thought but he should make sure he does not lose her .

Back in the hostel Pradeep and Chandini interviewed the remaining girls including the two helps Asha and Lata. Much to Sr Hilda’s disgust another two had boyfriends and one girl mentioned that apart from the Priest and his assistant the most frequented person was Anil the electrician. Pradeep and Chandini closed the interrogation with a small chat amongst themselves . Such a cleverly crafted murder and so effortlessly done and that too of a girl who had a lot of character and integrity as per her co-hostelers. C’mon let us go to the Police Station and think, said Pradeep, we will have to think of a strategy. Chandini surprised Pradeep by saying Sir you can see I am not wearing my uniform today as I thought I will go around this house/block and look for some clues. Meanwhile the only two loose ends are Arjun in the victim’s workplace and the electrician who is scheduled to return in two days.

Now Pradeep was really impressed . Chandini was giving him a run for his position. He did not want to alert the electrician and wanted to wait till he gets back in his normal course . He decided to go find Arjun while he leaves the crime scene and its vicinity in Chandini’s able hands.  He told Chandini he will see her in office and took Sr Hilda’s leave . Just then he remembered something. He called in for Jatinder and asked her – when were you supposed to return back to the hostel? Jatinder responded by saying,  Sir my replacement was hired for a week but I had said I will see my fathers condition and then respond. And what did you tell Rahul about your return ? Sir same thing, she replied . Chandini can you check if Rahul is still there ? He wanted to kick himself that he had not asked Rahul if he knew when Jatinder was going to be back. Now the opportunity was lost.

Pradeep parked his motorbike outside Rhythm Centersai in South Extension Part 2, market . He went inside and saw two males and one female staff who looked like sales staff. He went to the man at the counter and asked for Arjun ? The owner Mr Lakhotiya got up and said Sir Arjun has been on leave for a month. He got married two days ago in Orissa and will be back only in another 10 days time . Pradeep asked for a picture of Arjun and Mr Lakhotiya handed over a passport size one . Do you know what happened to Nutan your staff ? Yes Sir we heard as I had called up her hostel yesterday when she did not come . Do you have a room where we can chat , asked Pradeep? Of course my office behind, said Lakhotiya .

Pradeep sat for a good 15 minutes with Lakhotiya and heard only praise of Nutan. She never had any visitors except her parents came once in a month. She was very regular, hard working always decently clothed. No bad habits that Mr Lakhotiya had heard of ? Mr Lakhotiya what do you think ? Who could have done this ? Sir I certainly think that none of the staff would have done that. She was highly respected by her peers. It could be some insider or somebody who had a score to settle? Pradeep thanked him and went out . He remembered Vinita wanted the new cassette of Pankaj Udhas (Ghazal singer ) but did not want to mix work with personal matters. He will bring here some other time he thought.

At the station surprisingly Chandini was there before him and she was excited . Sir there is a presswala (man who irons clothes on a daily basis in residential colonies) right behind the hostel and I think we could get something out of him. But I did not want to ask them anything as they would be alerted . Ok tell Ajith and Rupa to leave Rahul and get cracking on with this presswala. Good work Chandini and let us have some samosas to celebrate your success. Chandini smiled shyly and went out to order some chai and samosas .

Just then the phone rang and Sr Hilda called reporting that the electrician had come back and he had given a call. He seemed to know nothing about the incident she remarked . Sister please call him and ask him to come to Lajpat Nagar Police Station urgently.

Pradeep and Chandini grilled Prasad the electrician till 8 pm at night in the police station but there was no cause to think at all that he could be involved. Have you seen Nutan? Chandini asked finally to which Prasad answered – Madam I can probably recognize her by face but I don’t know by name. Sr Merina always accompanied me when I did electrical works in the hostel and I never had to deal with any hostelers. But I have seen the ladies around and can recognize by face. Ok you can leave now said Pradeep disappointed.

Chandini have you briefed Ajith and Rupa about the change in plan for tomorrow asked Pradeep? Yes Sir , I have . Ok let us call it a day then, he said and hopefully tomorrow will be a better day.

The Press wala ( the one who irons clothes)

Vishnu was ironing clothes in the backlane and his wife was attending to their young son who had bruised himseld . Imarthi, he addressed his wife , I need to go and get some water while the fresh load of coal is burning in the iron. Keep a watch and I will be back soon. He turned to go when a cycle stopped in front of him . I am Hira said the cycle rider and this is my wife kaajal . We are looking for a place where we can set up a makeshift ironing stand . Can you help me ? Is there more work here than what you can handle ?

Vishnu looked at the middle aged lady behind Hira and said actually no . I have just enough but if you go further down two blocks there is lots of scope as I have heard there are no press walas there . Oh said Hira , can you take me there ? Well why dont you make your wife Kaajal sit with my wife and you can take me in your cycle to fetch some water and I can show you the block which I am referring to. Hira agreed and leaving Kaajal there he and Vishnu set forth. At the end of the backlane their cycle was stopped by a lady police constable standing next to a police jeep.

Where are you roaming asked the constable . Vishnu replied saying he was showing Hira a prospective place to work. Ok said the constable – no loitering around here as there has been a murder nearby . Vishnu cycled away and Hira enquired in a small voice – what happened . Arrey a young girl was murdered at night here , very near to the place I work. In fact I can see the house from my place of work. Oh so did you see someone suspicious asked Hira ? No , No! It happened at night . We go away at 6:30 pm to our room near Munirka. I heard that someone had entered the house from the back lane where we work from. Hmm said Hira. Be careful these police guys can be nasty . Whether or not you know anything they suspect poor people and beat them up.

Vishnu cycled steadily two blocks further and showed Hira the block. They walked around a bit and then returned back with a can full of water . Kaajal and Imarthi were chatting . Kaajal turned to Hira and asked – did you find a place ? Yes answered Hira but we will have to meet the secretary of the residential block and take permission. Imarthi offered them some lunch and Kaajal quickly took out a steel tiffin box and said we too have bought some . We can share if you want . All four and the child had lunch together .

While having lunch the murder came up in the conversation and Kaajal asked – did you see anybody loitering around here asking about the murder ? We have a saying in the village that a thief always comes back to visit the scene of crime to know if he would be caught or not ? No said Vishnu, just the regular shopkeepers and the maids who work in nearby houses have enquired . They have been asking Imarthi and me and then one or two dhabha walas (kiosks selling food) have enquired . Some I know and one or two I don’t know . As he was speaking Mumtaz a maid working nearby dropped by and asked Imarthi- Bhabi (a word used casually to address your brothers wife) have the police been able to find the murderer ? Na , said Imarthi and Mumtaz walked away .Hira and Kaajal took leave saying that they will come again once they have set up shop and Vishnu continued to work.

Meanwhile Chandni kept a close watch on Rahul Tyagi Jatinder’s boyfriend . She came back disappointed as she could not find anything suspicious in his movements or whereabouts . Tomorrow she would check out Paulose . While she was narrating the whole incident to Pradeep in the evening Ajith and Rupa walked in their Rajasthani attire ? So enquired Pradeep? Sir we went and mingled with the Presswala today but he seems clean. We saw a maid coming and enquiring but again it looked out of curiosity. Vishnu the presswala also said one or two shopkeepers have enquired from him if there has been any breakthrough. But it was clear that Vishnu did not have any suspect in his mind. Pradeep was disappointed and he sent them off and retired for the day. Chandini had also questioned the night watchman near the hostel but no leads were there.

An eventful day

Pradeep sat at the breakfast table disappointed and narrated all the happenings to Vineeta . Chandini is gone to keep an eye on Paulose the Priest’ s assistant and that is our last hope . We will have to wait for more leads and as time passes it will become more difficult . Vineeta looked at him and said wait for a day or two and something will come up. Your cases have taken a year sometimes and this is only the third day. Have a good breakfast , take the blessings of Hanuman ji (Hindu god ) and you are sure to find something. After all an innocent girl is the victim . Pradeep started his bike and as he turned Vineeta called out to him saying- why dont you personally meet the Presswala in the back lane and try to get some leads ? Pradeep smiled at her and rode off.

Instead of going to the police station he went to the hostel and met Sr Hilda who seemed very upset . Two of the girls (Shivani and Gouri) had been removed from the hostel by their parents and she was worried the hostel will earn a bad name . Looking at his watch Pradeep realized it was 12 noon. As he prepared to move out the phone rang in the hostel. Sr Hilda called out to him saying it was from the police station. It was Chandni on the line and she informed him that she had followed Paulose at around 11 am and found him talking to the Press wala behind the hostel. Sir I called at the police station but since you were not there I took a chance and called at the hostel. Pradeep thought for a moment and asked her where she was ? I am calling from South Extension phone booth. Ok stay there and I will send you a police jeep. Get the Press wala to the police station. Sir you mean Paulose ? No leave him and get the Press wala. Chandni hung up puzzled but she knew Pradeep sir, must have a well thought off plan.

At the Police station Vishnu, the Press walah, was nervously answering all the questions . Pradeep asked him what Paulose was asking . Sir I dont know his name and I had not seen him before but he was enquiring if we had seen anything suspicious . He said he knows the hostel well. Hmm and ? And nothing sir . I did not have anything to tell him. Who else has asked you about the murder asked Pradeep and beckoned to chandni to make a note . Sir a guy who delivers milk on the scooter and two small shopkeepers in the nearby market and a Dhabawala. But sir I don’t know the Dhabawala as I had never seen him before. The others I have . Pradeep looked at his watch and it was 4:30 pm. He had no time to lose . He asked for an ambassador car and asked Chandini to change into plain clothes . Vishnu come on , show us the shopkeepers from a distance he said . The trio with the driver in plain clothes drove to Amar colony near Lajpat Nagar .

Vishnu pointed out to a small kiosk selling paan and Chadini went out to meet the vendor. She came back nodding her head in disappointment to Pradeep. Sir that bakery sends the milkman said Vishnu pointing to a small bakery at the end of the market . Attached to the bakery was a small diary where large cans of milk were kept. Just as Chndini got down Vishnu pointed to a two wheeler which came and stopped at the dairy . Sir , he is the guy who delivers milk and had enquired of me . Pradeep quickly walked out and went and spoke briefly to the guy who rode the two wheeler . Both Chandni and Pradeep came back to the car disappointed . Nothing suspicious and no leads .

Where is the dhaba guy asked Pradeep . Sir I dont know , I have never seen him around but when he asked me about the murder I enquired who he is ? He said he had just come from the village and was running a Dhaba nearby . He had heard about the murder and had come to ask out of curiosity. They dropped Vishnu at his place of work warning him not to talk to anyone and that he should carry on as usual. Another day of disapointment and both Pradeep and chandini were tired .

The mystery is solved.

The next day around 12 pm when Pradeep was chatting with Chandni , they saw Vishnu rushing in . Sir the Dhaba wala guy came again today morning and asked if the case has been solved . And sir this time, I followed him from a distance and saw his Dhabha which is a block away . It is a famous dhbaha which makes parathas but it was run by a different guy . I dont know when this guy has taken over. Pradeep picked up his cap and he and Chandini set out with Vishnu in the police jeep . Near the Dhaba , Vishnu pointed to a young chap sitting and reading something . Pradeep asked Vishnu to go back on foot and he and chandini approached the young chap at the Dhaba. What is your name , asked Pradeep ? Shiva the youth replied ? How long have you been here . Sir this is our Dhaba and we have been running this for 4 years now . Come with us said Pradeep and Chandni held his hand and took him to the jeep. Shiva kept asking what he has done throughout the journey till the police station. His pleas fell on deaf years.

Back at the police station Pradeep came down heavily on Shiva So why did you kill Nutan – the hostel girl, asked Pradeep. Shiva started weeping saying he did not even know the girl and in a slip of tongue said – Sir I have been here only three days and I was not here when the murder took place . Chandni jumped in asking so how come you said you have been running this place for two years or more? And how did you get to know about the murder ? Shiva broke down and said madam my older brother Madhav runs this Dhaba but he is unwell and is in our village near Ghaziabad . I am here to stand in for him till he is well enough to get back. I am actually studying . And I read in the papers about the murder and since it was near to our place , I went to enquire ? How far is your village , asked Pradeep ? Sir an hour and half . Pradeep felt he had reached somewhere.

He took Chandni out of the room and said go fast and get Vishnu before he leaves for his home in Munirka – take the jeep. Chandini rushed out and Pradeep informed Vineeta over the phone that he would be quite late and that she should have dinner and go to sleep. He then went back to Shiva and said what is wrong with your brother and when did he come back home ? Sir he had fever and he came three nights ago in the early hours of the morning saying he was unwell . i then came here next day morning. Shiva was constantly evading Pradeep’s eyes. Pradeep warned him that if he hides anything then he will be put behind bars . Your brother Madhav , did he commit the murder asked Pradeep. No Sir ! Not at all . Why would he ?

Chandni came back in 20 minutes with Vishnu, his wife and young child . Sir , his wife could not go back home alone so I brought her here . Good, said Pradeep ask someone to take care of the lady and the child . You, me Vishnu and Shiva are going to Ghaziabad right now.

The jeep roared at speed and by the time it reached the village it was dark. Shiva looked frightened as he led them to his house. Madhav had just finished his dinner and to the horror of his parents he was picked up without any explanations . Pradeep asked Vishnu if he recognized Madhav to which the latter replied – Yes Sir , he has been sitting at the Dhaba for at least two years . Pleased, Pradeep and Chandini set back with both brothers and Vishnu. On the way Shiva was dropped saying that he should not move out of the city. Pradeep and Chandni got dropped at the police station and sent back Vishnu and family to their room in the jeep.

Chandni order some dinner and tea and let us get started on this guy. It did not take Pradeep and Chandni very long to break down Madhav. He seemed to have no remorse. Madhav’s confession was a lesson on how people should not have personal conversations in public and how dangerous it can be for their lives.

Madhav related how he had known Nutan, Jatinder and one or two other girls from the hostel for quite some time They used to frequently buy dal (Indian cooked lentil) and tandoori roti from his Dhaba and take it back to their hostel. He enjoyed listening to their conversations on work, movies , hairstyles , fashion and boyfriends, while they were waiting for their food to be ready. . He confessed Nutan stood out amongst all of them because she would always leave a tip for him and enquire about his well being .

Madhav tried several times to have personal conversations with Nutan but she would respond very curtly to that . He said invariably she would wear sarees on Saturday and he fell in love with her . He would wait for her to come to the Dhaba and very often he had seen Jatinder and Nutan standing in their small balcony from the balcony. He said he used to walk in the backlane especially on Saturdays as the girls would be awake till late at night on the weekend . Madhav said he was attracted towards her but knew that the feeling was not and never will be reciprocated . This is why he wanted to be close to her at least once so that he could keep her in his memory.

Two – three days before the murder both Jatinder and Nutan had visited his Dhaba. Apparently they were talking about Jatinder’s dad being ill and that she was leaving for home . Nutan had asked her when she will be back and Jatinder had said that it will take her a week and teased her that she could now listen to the songs of her choice . What really gave them away was when Nutan said to Jatinder – without you , I will have to keep the balcony door closed as I am scared of the nuns finding out . The AC is not working and it will be very hot at night . I wont be able to sleep without the cool breeze she went on and I don’t have your guts t . When sisters come to check I am scared of lying to them . If they find out through the watchman they will ask me to leave the hostel.

Madhav narrated how Jatinder had encouraged Nutan to keep the door open saying nothing will happen. Don’t be silly said Jatinder who had been in the hostel longer than Nutan and could easily fool the sisters . Just close the door from inside and don’t keep the balcony door completely ajar . Just a little , so that the breeze comes in. Madhav had carefully listened to the whole conversation. And the next day they came again when Jatinder clearly mentioned to Nutan that the school had allowed her leave from next day and that she will leave in the morning.

Madhav had earlier followed the girls to the hostel and then identified their residence from the backlane. The in-depth innocuous conversation that Nutan and Jatinder had while waiting for their food to be ready in the last few days (before the incident ) had proved fatal for them. Nobody could have thought of this as to how the girls had themselves made their own life so vulnerable.

In the few days before the incident Madhav had gone through the backlane of the hostel several times . However he got most encouraged to scale up the wall when he was sure that Nutan will be alone . It was time to fulfil his dream and did not care about the consequences . On the fateful day he waited till about 1 pm and then scaled the wall of the hostel in a frenzy of excitement . The lights were off in the room but the music was on .

As a defence , he had carried a small hammer in his pocket . When asked if it was difficult to scale the wall he said he was helped by the pipe which belonged to the next door house . When he entered the room Nutan was fast asleep but she did get up when she sensed his closeness . He confessed he had no choice but to hit her on the head with the hammer because she had screamed . Luckily no one had heard him. Nutan was unconscious with the hammer hit . But when Madhav had almost completed the heinous crime of rape she started moaning and coming back into consciousness and then in fright he strangulated her with his hands.

When he was sure she was dead he left her and went back the same way he had come in . He said he had picked a picture of her from the room which was in his house. Pradeep and Chandni were in a state of shock when Madhav finished . This guy could easily have been caught or seen by someone but lust knows no fear – probably ?

And does Shiva know all this, asked Pradeep ? Madhav shook his head and said he may be suspecting something but I haven’t told him explicitly. The day after the murder, I had asked him to go near the hostel and find out what was going on and he did ask me why I was interested. He probably may suspect some involvement from my side , but since I am older he does not have courage to ask me .

Shiva was brought in again to the Police station next day to check his involvement . Sr Hilda and the hostel girls were aghast when they heard about the Dhaba guy entering the hostel to commit the murder . Nutan’s parents broke down hearing about the torture and how a mere casual conversation had made their child so vulnerable . Once the case was solved the hostel walls were scaled up and grilled completely. Not only this but many other working women’s hostels tightened their security and ensured extra security around their hostels.