Serial Actress Manjula Attacked by Husband After 20 Years of Marriage; Accused Sent to Jail

News Flash

11 July

Domestic dispute turns violent in Srinagar; husband Amaresh arrested after stabbing actress Manjula multiple times in broad daylight

Bengaluru: Kannada serial actress Manjula, also known as Shruthi Ikeye, was brutally attacked by her husband, Amaresh, at their home in Srinagar, Bengaluru. The incident occurred on the morning of July 4, shortly after their two daughters left for college.

The couple, married for 20 years, had a long history of frequent domestic disputes, according to local residents. Amaresh, who was formerly an auto driver, allegedly sprayed pepper on Manjula’s face and then stabbed her multiple times—in the stomach, thighs, and hands—using a knife.

“Despite several police complaints and repeated counselling attempts by relatives, the couple continued to fight daily. On July 4, the situation escalated beyond control,” said a senior police official investigating the case.

Violent Assault Shocks Neighbourhood

Manjula, who has appeared in small roles in serials like Amruthdhare, Annayya, and Puttakka’s Children, and once worked as an anchor for a private channel, managed to escape with severe injuries and was rushed to the hospital in an autorickshaw, bleeding and in shock.

Neighbours, alarmed by her screams, intervened and rescued her, preventing further injury. The police were immediately informed and arrested Amaresh at the scene. He has since been taken into custody, interrogated, and remanded to judicial custody.

“We’ve sent the accused to jail after initial questioning. The survivor’s statement has been recorded, and further legal action is underway,” said the official.

Long History of Domestic Abuse and Police Involvement

The couple had been living separately at times, following repeated altercations. Amaresh had leased a house in Srinagar, and though Manjula left him and stayed at her brother’s house for some time, she returned for the sake of their daughters. However, the situation remained volatile.

“She came back hoping things would improve for the children. But the fighting never stopped. We’ve been called to their house several times,” a neighbour said.

Locals said the family had become a source of daily commotion in the area and that they had advised the couple many times to seek professional help or stay apart, but their efforts were in vain.

Manjula’s Recovery and Public Appeal Expected

Manjula is now recovering in hospital, and doctors have stated that she is out of danger. It is expected that she will soon make a public appeal about domestic violence, especially in cases where children are affected by long-term abuse in the household.

This incident has once again raised questions about the efficacy of intervention mechanisms in prolonged domestic abuse cases, where repeated police complaints and community counselling fail to prevent eventual tragedy.