In a deeply distressing case, 40-year-old Puneet Khurana, a cafe owner from Delhi’s Model Town, died by suicide on December 31, leaving behind video recordings alleging mental harassment and financial demands from his estranged wife, Manika Pahwa, and her family. The tragedy sheds light on a bitter marital dispute that spiraled into devastating consequences.
Allegations Against Wife and In-Laws
Financial Demands and Mental Torture
In a 59-minute video statement recorded before his death, Puneet Khurana described the immense pressure he faced from his wife and in-laws.
“They are asking for another ₹10 lakh which I don’t have the capacity to pay. I cannot ask my parents as they already have paid enough,” he said.
The couple, who married in 2016, had filed for mutual divorce but disagreements over financial settlements led to escalating tensions. Mr. Khurana alleged that his wife and her family violated court-mandated conditions, demanding additional payments beyond the original agreement.
Family’s Testimonies
Sister’s Statement
Puneet’s sister accused Ms. Pahwa, her sister, and her parents of relentless harassment.
“She, her sister, and her parents mentally tortured and harassed him. She even hacked Puneet’s social media accounts and used them to harass him further,” she claimed.
Mother’s Plea for Justice
Puneet’s mother said her son suffered in silence to shield his family from distress.
“She kept torturing him, and he avoided sharing his troubles to protect us. I want justice for my son,” she said tearfully.
Sequence of Events Leading to the Tragedy
Recorded Call Reveals Harassment
A call between Puneet and Ms. Pahwa, recorded on December 30, captured bitter exchanges.
- Ms. Pahwa accused him of ruining her life, using derogatory language, and threatening legal action.
- Puneet responded calmly, asking, “Just tell me what you want,” indicating his willingness to find a resolution despite the hostility.
Discovery of the Incident
On December 31, Puneet Khurana was found unresponsive in his room. The police confirmed his death by hanging. Investigators seized his mobile phone, which contained his video statement and the call recordings.
History of Marital Discord
Strained Relationship and Legal Battles
- Puneet and Manika operated the Woodbox Cafe together before their relationship soured two years after marriage.
- During divorce proceedings, Puneet’s family alleges that Ms. Pahwa repeatedly threatened to file false cases against them and imposed unreasonable financial demands.
Cryptic Social Media Posts
Days before Puneet’s death, Ms. Pahwa shared a social media post claiming she had endured “toxicity and narcissistic abuse” but was now free. Puneet’s family believes this was a preemptive attempt to deflect blame and frame herself as a victim.
Police Investigation Underway
Statements from Both Families
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Northwest Delhi) Bhisham Singh confirmed an ongoing inquiry:
“We have seized the mobile phone and are verifying the family’s claims. Both families are participating in the investigation, and Manika’s family has made counter-allegations.”
Evidence Collected
- Call Recordings: Capturing verbal abuse and demands.
- CCTV Footage: To verify movements and interactions.
- Forensic Analysis: Mobile phone and financial transactions central to the case.
The investigation will explore financial disputes, property claims, and other circumstances contributing to Puneet’s suicide.
Broader Context: Rising Cases of Marital Discord
Puneet’s case is not an isolated incident. Similar cases of alleged harassment by spouses and in-laws have come to light, such as the Bengaluru tech executive Atul Subhash, who also died by suicide after detailing harassment in a 24-page note.
Impact on Families
These incidents highlight the emotional toll and legal complexities surrounding marital disputes, particularly when financial demands and harassment claims are involved.
The tragic death of Puneet Khurana underscores the devastating consequences of unresolved marital conflicts. While the investigation continues, his family’s demand for justice brings attention to the need for systemic changes in handling cases of domestic harassment and financial exploitation.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek help from trusted individuals or mental health support services.
