Naresh Bhatt Testifies in Wife’s Murder Trial

Bhatt testified for the defense in the murder trial, where he is charged with murder in the first degree, hiding her corpse and desecrating it. His wife’s remains have not been found. He has pleaded not guilty and has been in custody since his arrest in August 2024.

With an interpreter translating questions, Bhatt testified in English. He said he felt hopeful, scared and nervous about taking the stand, including concern that jurors might not understand his English. He described growing up in Nepal, including being abducted as a teenager by Maoists during the country’s civil conflict and subjected to forced labor, physical violence and sexual abuse.

Bhatt told jurors that his relationship with Mamta changed in early 2024, with less communication and strained conversations. He acknowledged raising divorce during arguments and said he had sometimes treated her poorly, including being emotionally cruel. He also said he had not really paid attention to or helped with what he now believes were her mental health struggles. He denied ever physically harming her.

The jury also saw video of Mamta speaking with police months before her disappearance, saying Bhatt had taken her documents. Prosecutors allege he killed her in July 2024, dismembered her and disposed of her remains at multiple trash sites. They have not recovered her body or human remains. Prosecutors have yet to cross-examine Bhatt.