52-Year-Old Hid Age with Filter, Murdered by Lover

A 52-year-old woman in Uttar Pradesh was murdered by her 26-year-old boyfriend, whom she had met on Instagram. The case, reported from Mainpuri district, brings forward deep concerns about emotional vulnerability, deception through social media, and the mental stressors that can push individuals into extreme actions.

How the Relationship Began Online

According to police reports, the woman, identified as Rani from Farrukhabad district, connected with the accused, Arun Rajput, on Instagram about 18 months ago. Investigators said that Rani allegedly used photo filters to appear younger than her age, which initially led Arun to believe she was closer to his age. Over time, their online conversations grew into a relationship, and the two started meeting in person at hotels.

Financial and Emotional Involvement

Police revealed that Rani not only invested her emotions but also loaned about ₹1.5 lakh to Arun. She was a mother of four and, as their relationship deepened, she began pressuring him for marriage and repayment of the money. These demands reportedly created ongoing conflict and psychological strain between the two.

The Crime and Confession

On August 10, Arun invited Rani to Mainpuri. Investigators state that when she once again pressed him for marriage and repayment, he allegedly lost control and strangled her with a scarf in a moment of rage. Her body was discovered on August 11, initially unidentified. After tracing phone records and social media exchanges, police matched her with a missing persons complaint filed by her family. Arun was later arrested and confessed to the crime, citing fear that she would approach his family or the police if he refused her demands.

Psychological Dynamics in Online Relationships

This case sheds light on several important mental and psychological health aspects:

Age Misrepresentation and Deception: The use of filters and altered online identities can create distorted expectations, leading to emotional conflicts when reality surfaces.
Emotional Vulnerability: Rani’s investment of both love and financial support suggests a strong emotional dependency, which can intensify distress when expectations are not met.
Anger and Impulse Control: The accused’s violent response highlights the psychological danger when unresolved anger, fear, and pressure combine without healthy coping strategies.
Fear of Social Consequences: Arun admitted his actions were partly driven by fear of exposure to his family, a reminder of how stigma and secrecy can contribute to tragic outcomes.

Conclusion

While this incident is criminal in nature, it also underscores how psychological stress, emotional vulnerabilities, and unhealthy relationship dynamics can escalate into extreme behaviour. It serves as a reminder for both individuals and mental health professionals about the importance of awareness, early intervention, and support systems in preventing such tragedies.

Source: Inputs from various media Sources

Priya Bairagi

Copy-Writer & Content Editor

All Posts

I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.