In a deeply disturbing case that has sent shockwaves across Meghaninagar, the lifeless body of a three-month-old infant was discovered inside a water tank at his residence in Jay Ambe Nagar, Bhargav Road. The discovery came merely five hours after his parents reported him missing last Thursday morning.

The infant, Khyal Baghel, was reportedly last seen sleeping beside his parents, Dilip and Karishma Baghel. Upon waking and realising the child was missing, the family initiated a frantic search before informing the Meghaninagar police. A prompt search operation led to the tragic discovery of the baby’s body inside the house’s water tank — an area deemed inaccessible to a child of his age, incapable of crawling or walking.

Police have since registered a case and launched a full-scale investigation. The fact that no signs of forced entry or evidence of any outsider have emerged has led authorities to suspect involvement from within the household. At the time of the incident, only the infant’s parents and grandmother were present at home.

During initial interrogation, Karishma, the infant’s mother, claimed that the child might have accidentally fallen into the tank while she stepped away briefly to use the washroom. However, the police remain sceptical of this explanation, citing the implausibility of the baby reaching the tank unaided.

In a significant development, investigators have now uncovered a disturbing new angle: the possible role of superstition in the tragedy. According to sources familiar with the probe, police have come across indications that the family harboured superstitious beliefs and had begun associating their recent misfortunes — including financial instability and deteriorating health — with the birth of the infant.

“Preliminary findings suggest that the family believed their downfall began after the birth of the child,” a senior police official told Gujarat Samachar Digital. “We are exploring whether these beliefs played a role in the child’s death.”

This revelation has further deepened suspicion that the act may have been deliberate rather than accidental. Investigators are now focusing on whether the family, driven by blind faith and desperation, may have chosen to eliminate the child in a misguided attempt to rid themselves of perceived misfortune.

The post-mortem report, awaited at the time of reporting, is expected to shed light on the exact cause of death. Meanwhile, police are thoroughly questioning all family members and examining past behaviour, including any previous indications of neglect or distress linked to the child.

Meghaninagar police have assured that “All aspects of the case are being looked into, including the influence of superstition. We are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice is served,” said the investigating officer.