Udupi, February 01, 2026 — The trial in the sensational Nejar mother and three children murder case progressed with the examination of eight key witnesses and cross-examination on January 30 and 31 at the Second Additional District and Sessions Court, Udupi.
Special Public Prosecutor Shivaprasad Alva conducted the chief examination of private witnesses who assisted in the mahazar (spot inspection), while defence counsel Raju Poojari carried out the cross-examination. With this, a total of 26 witnesses have now been examined in the case so far.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for February 27 and 28, during which 10–15 more witnesses are expected to be examined. Summons have been directed to be issued accordingly. The accused, Praveen Chaugule, was produced via video conference during the proceedings.
The case relates to the alleged murder of a mother and her three children in Nejar village, which shocked the district and drew widespread attention. The trial is being closely monitored, with both prosecution and defence presenting detailed arguments.
