Relatives demand arrest in teacher’s suicide case in Salem

Relatives of a school teacher who ended her life near Magudanchavadi in the district demanded the immediate arrest of a youth allegedly responsible for her death and submitted a petition to the Superintendent of Police (SP) here on Wednesday (February 18, 2026).

Shanmugapriya, a teacher residing near Magudanchavadi, was found dead at her residence on Tuesday. The body was recovered by the Kakapalayam police, who have registered a case. Police said a case has been booked against a youth, Gautham, on charges of abetment of suicide, and efforts are under way to secure him.

On Wednesday, the victim’s mother and relatives submitted a petition to the SP. They alleged that Gautham had been harassing Shanmugapriya for over one-and-a-half years. They claimed that even after she refused to marry him, he and his family members continued to harass her.

The relatives further alleged that there was a delay in taking action as one of Gautham’s relatives is a police personnel. They urged the authorities to conduct a fair inquiry and arrest Gautham and his parents without delay.

Speaking to reporters, the victim’s mother and sister said they would receive the body only after the arrest of the accused. They maintained that sustained harassment had driven Shanmugapriya to take the extreme step.

Assistance for overcoming suicidal thoughts is available on the State’s health helpline (104) and Sneha’s suicide prevention helpline (044-2464 0050).