Sat Dec 21 17:08:11 UTC 2024: **Six-Year-Old Girl Smothered; Stepmom Arrested in Kerala**

KOCHI, KERALA – December 22, 2024 – A six-year-old girl was allegedly smothered by her stepmother in Kothamangalam, Kerala, leading to the arrest of the stepmother, Aneesha (23), on charges of murder. The girl’s body was buried Saturday following funeral ceremonies.

The incident occurred Thursday morning at the family’s home. Aneesha, originally from Uttar Pradesh, was arrested the same evening. While the girl’s father, Ajas Khan, was initially taken into custody, he was later released due to lack of evidence implicating him in the crime.

Khan stated to the media that Aneesha had claimed the child was unresponsive, and that he hadn’t suspected her despite her reported anger towards the child and prior warnings from neighbors about her abusive behavior. He said he would have moved the child if his wife had expressed dislike. He also explained his and his wife’s consultation with a local “sorcerer,” Naushad, attributing it to issues Aneesha faced after a miscarriage. Aneesha, who is pregnant, has a daughter from a previous marriage.

Police reported difficulty obtaining a confession from Aneesha, who allegedly feigned possession and blamed an evil spirit. Police believe Aneesha’s insecurity about Khan’s contact with his estranged wife contributed to the crime. Naushad (56) was also arrested Saturday and charged under the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act. The investigation is ongoing.

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