Even the motive behind the murder is yet to be ascertained, prima facie it seems the man — Muhammed Faiyaz — was depressed after his wife deserted him last month, said police, adding that Faiyaz is absconding.

“We have recovered the charred bodies of the children. A case has been initiated and the father is absconding. We are trying to ascertain the motive,” said Burdwan SP R Rajshekharan.

Faiyaz stayed with his wife, Seema, and two daughters at Islampara in Asansol Dakshin. A month ago, Seema left her husband and went to Dhanbad following a marital discord.

“We think it was depression and frustration which led Faiyaz to take the step. We are raiding different places in search of him. The truth will be out after his arrest,” said an officer of Asansol Dakshin police station.