Ayodhya woman was strangled, confirms report

Lucknow: The post-mortem examination report of a 32-year-old woman from Ayodhya confirmed that she was murdered by strangulation. The report, conducted by a team of forensic experts at KGMU mortuary in Lucknow, revealed multiple injuries consistent with physical assault prior to her death.
According to the report (a copy of which has been exclusively accessed by TOI), the woman's body had an abrasion above her left eyebrow and a bruise on her chin, located just below her lower lip. Additionally, multiple bruises were found on the right side of her neck along the jawline, indicating forceful pressure. A prominent ligature mark was observed encircling her neck. The mark, soft and reddish with visible grooves, suggested the use of a rope, cloth, or similar object for strangulation.
The report also detailed internal injuries, including bruising of the neck muscles and windpipe, further confirming strangulation as the cause of death. The tongue was found bitten and lips and nails appeared blue, both common signs of asphyxia. Congestion was observed in the brain, lungs and other internal organs, consistent with oxygen deprivation caused by strangulation.
The report indicated that all injuries occurred before death. The medical team also collected swabs from her body, including vaginal, anal, oral, breast and scalp hair samples, for forensic examination. Additionally, her heart and internal organs were preserved for histopathological analysis, and her viscera were sent for chemical testing to rule out any possible poisoning.
The report concluded that the immediate cause of death was asphyxia resulting from ante-mortem strangulation, confirming foul play. The police have preserved all key evidence, including the victim's clothing, forensic samples and video documentation of the autopsy, to aid in the ongoing investigation.