Ramanuj Goswami Dies After Alleged Escape Attempt While in Police Custody

Ramanuj Goswami, who had been arrested in connection with the alleged murder of his wife Riya Talukdar in Guwahati, died after an incident while he was being taken for a health examination in the early hours of Sunday.

According to GMCH authorities, Goswami was brought to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) at around 3:41 am. GMCH Principal Dr. Devajit Choudhury said the hospital authorities had confirmed that Goswami had died before being brought to the hospital. He also stated that there were no apparent bullet injuries on the body. The exact cause of death will be established after the post-mortem examination.

According to the police account, Goswami allegedly attempted to escape at around 3:30 am near Narkasur Hill when the police vehicle slowed down. Police said he jumped from the vehicle and sustained injuries, including bleeding from his body. He allegedly attempted to jump further from the hill and suffered a head injury after hitting a rock.

While the police have reportedly denied firing at Goswami, allegations of police firing have emerged following the incident. The circumstances surrounding his injuries and death are expected to become clearer after the post-mortem examination.

Goswami had been arrested in connection with the alleged murder of his wife, Riya Talukdar, at their residence in the Basisthapur area of Guwahati. Police alleged that Riya was killed following an altercation between the couple, reportedly stemming from Goswami’s suspicion that she was involved in an extramarital relationship.

Riya’s body was recovered from a third-floor flat named Anjali Griha after her family alerted the police. Personnel from Hatigaon Police Station reached the spot and initiated an investigation.

Residents of the building reportedly told police that the couple frequently had arguments. Neighbours also said they heard loud disturbances from the flat on Saturday, followed by what sounded like a woman crying. According to residents, only Goswami’s voice could be heard during the disturbance, and he appeared frightened and distressed.

Riya and Goswami had reportedly married around six months ago and were living together in the apartment. Goswami worked as an Uber driver and was originally from Gauripur.

Riya was a resident of Noonmati and worked at a boutique in the AC Market area of Fancy Bazar. She had reportedly lost both her parents and is survived by her brother.

Goswami’s body has been kept at the GMCH morgue, with the post-mortem examination expected to determine the precise cause of his death.