In a shocking incident from Madhya Pradesh's Balaghat district, an elderly man allegedly buried his newborn grandson alive in a heap of cow dung in an attempt to conceal the birth of his unmarried daughter's child. The accused later allegedly consumed pesticide in an apparent suicide attempt and is currently undergoing treatment in critical condition.

The incident was reported from Nandgaon Panchayat under Waraseoni police station limits. Police said information about the suspected crime was received on July 31. However, continuous rainfall and darkness delayed the recovery operation, and the infant's body was exhumed on August 1 in the presence of administrative officials.

Villagers Grew Suspicious After Hearing Baby Cry

According to local residents, the incident came to light after neighbours heard the cries of a newborn during the night. When they questioned the family, they allegedly gave evasive responses, raising suspicion among villagers.

As doubts intensified, the village sarpanch convened a meeting where an ASHA worker reportedly informed those present that the family's unmarried daughter had been pregnant for several months. Based on this information, the sarpanch alerted the Waraseoni police.

Body Recovered From Cow Dung Heap

A rescue and recovery operation was conducted in the presence of Naib Tehsildar Chandrakishore Kakodia, medical officials and the police. The newborn's body was recovered from beneath the cow dung heap.

Officials said a cloth was found tied around the infant's mouth and neck, indicating the possibility that the child had been suffocated before being buried. The exact cause of death, however, will be confirmed only after the post-mortem examination.

Accused Hospitalised After Consuming Poison

Police said the infant's grandfather, identified as Dharasingh Madavi, allegedly consumed pesticide after the incident. He was admitted to a hospital in critical condition and remains under medical supervision.

Investigators are expected to record his statement once his condition stabilises.

Investigation Underway

Waraseoni police have launched an investigation into the incident. Authorities said further legal action will be taken after receiving the post-mortem report and completing the preliminary investigation.

Police are also examining the circumstances surrounding the pregnancy and whether any other individuals were involved or had prior knowledge of the incident.

The case has sparked outrage in the area, with villagers expressing shock over the alleged attempt to conceal the birth through such an extreme act.