New Delhi Police in India's western state of Maharashtra have arrested a 28‑year‑old housewife for allegedly poisoning food at a family function that killed five people, including four children.

The woman committed the crime as she was fed up with constant taunts from her husband's family and in‑laws over her dark complexion and lack of cooking skills.

Police said She had allegedly laced the food prepared for a house‑warming party thrown by a relative on Monday with pesticide.

Senior Police official said Four children, between seven and 13-years-old and a 53‑year‑old man died after consuming the food. The dead included two of her relatives.

Several victims still remain in hospital. The woman has been charged for murder and is to be produced in court.

[Source:Stuff.co.nz]