Yellapur: A day after a divorced woman, identified as Ranjita, was murdered for allegedly refusing a marriage proposal, the body of the accused, Rafiq, was found hanging from a tree in a nearby forest on Sunday, police said.

Ranjita was allegedly attacked and stabbed in broad daylight on Saturday. She was rushed to a government hospital and later referred to KIMS Hospital, Hubballi, but succumbed to her injuries while being shifted.

Following the murder, Hindu organisations called for a Yellapur bandh on Sunday, which was largely observed. Most shops and business establishments remained closed, and several people participated in a silent protest condemning the killing.

Police said the accused had fled the scene after the attack. His photograph was circulated on social media as part of the search operation. On Sunday morning, police received information about a body hanging in a forest area, which was later identified as Rafiq. Further investigation is underway.

Adequate police deployment was made in the town to maintain law and order. Superintendent of Police Deepan M.N. stayed in Yellapur in view of the tense situation, police added.

Ranjita, a resident of Bannod, had recently obtained a divorce and was working as an assistant cook under the government mid-day meal scheme. Preliminary inquiry suggests that the accused was known to her and was upset over her refusal to marry him.

Police said detailed investigation is in progress into both the murder and the apparent suicide.