Patna: Three members of a family died and another is battling for life after a domestic dispute in Vishunpur village under Chandi police station area of Nalanda district triggered a series of suspected suicides on Saturday.The deceased have been identified as 65-year-old Dilendra Tanti, his elder son Ranjit Tanti (40) and daughter-in-law Gauri Devi (30). Dilendra’s younger son, Purushottam Tanti (35), is undergoing treatment in hospital.According to villagers, the family had been embroiled in a prolonged dispute over allegations of an illicit relationship between Dilendra and Gauri, leading to frequent quarrels at home. Police said the issue had caused tension within the household for a long time.Purushottam told police that he tried to end his life by hanging himself on Saturday morning after another domestic dispute. As family members rushed him to hospital, Ranjit and Gauri allegedly consumed poisonous tablets. The couple also allegedly tried to force their four-year-old son, Prince, to consume the poison, but the child spat it out.Ranjit and Gauri were taken to hospital, where both died during treatment. Meanwhile, Dilendra allegedly hanged himself inside the house.Confirming the incident, Chandi’s acting SHO Rahul Kumar said the family had been facing serious domestic discord for a long time. “The exact reason behind the discord was not known yet. The police are investigating the matter. The bodies have been sent for post-mortem examination,” he said.DSP Sunil Kumar Singh said villagers and family members had been questioned to ascertain the circumstances that led to the tragedy.The investigating officer said preliminary findings suggested that Dilendra died by suicide, while the couple consumed poison. Police said all angles were being examined and further action would follow the investigation.
