Yesterday marks two years since the horrific quadruple murder of Haseena and her three children in Nejaru, Udupi, on November 12, 2023. This brutal incident, which unfolded on the auspicious day of Diwali, sent shockwaves across the nation, transcending caste, creed, and religion. Citizens united in solidarity with the victims' family, and locals observed the festival in somber simplicity as a mark of condolence.
Key Details of the Case
Incident: On November 12, 2023, Aynaz(21), a former Air India Express cabin crew member, along with her Family - Haseena (48), Afnan (23), Aynaz (21), and Aseem (12)—were savagely murdered in their home in Nejaru, a suburb of Udupi. The attack was carried out with extreme brutality, leaving the community in grief.
Accused: Praveen Arun Chougule (39 at the time), also a cabin crew member with Air India Express and a colleague of Aynaz, has been identified as the sole perpetrator. He was arrested shortly after in Belagavi district.
Destruction of Evidence: Investigations revealed that Chougule attempted to cover his tracks by burning his bloodstained clothes en route after fleeing the scene.
Court Decisions: Chougule's bail applications have been repeatedly denied, including by the Karnataka High Court in July 2024, citing the gravity of the crime and the risk of tampering with evidence. In March 2025, the trial court dismissed his plea to record witness testimonies remotely.
Current Status: The trial continues in the Udupi Second Additional District and Sessions Court, with witness examinations underway as of the latest hearings in July 2025, when judicial custody was extended. A charge sheet spanning 2,202 pages was filed in February 2024. Despite calls for a special fast-track court due to the case's severity, proceedings remain in the regular sessions court.
This tragedy remains a dark stain on Udupi district, underscoring failures in addressing interpersonal violence. The victims' family holds onto hope for a swift resolution, justice, and severe punishment for the accused, as the examination of witnesses progresses toward a verdict.
