Brain Mapping Cracks Chandigarh Professor's Wife Murder Case

Chandigarh Police have apprehended Bharat Bhushan Goyal, a senior professor at Panjab University, in connection with the 2021 murder of his wife, Seema Goyal. The arrest, made over four years after the incident, was based on advanced forensic psychological tests, including brain electrical oscillation signature (BEOS) profiling, which suggested the professor retained 'experiential memories' of the crime. Despite initial claims of an external perpetrator, forensic evidence indicated the murder scene was altered from within the couple's home.

The investigation gained significant momentum following a high court directive, prompted by Seema's brother's dissatisfaction with the probe's progress. Seema Goyal was found murdered in their residence on Diwali day in 2021. Autopsy confirmed strangulation as the cause of death, with signs of a struggle evident on her body. Crucially, there were no signs of forced entry and no valuables were reported missing, further raising suspicion within the household.

Professor Goyal had consented to psychological tests, including a narco analysis that could not be completed due to his health. The BEOS test, similar to one used in the Kathua case, maps brain activity in response to crime-related stimuli. While not direct evidence of guilt, findings from these scientific assessments, combined with circumstantial evidence, built a strong case warranting the professor's arrest, police stated. Efforts are now underway to recover the murder weapon and the victim's mobile phone.