Ghaziabad, December 19, 2024: In a significant development, the Ghaziabad Police Commissionerate announced the arrest of two individuals accused of abetting the suicide of a couple in Shalimar Garden. The couple, identified as Reena and Pankaj Gupta, were residents of A-124, Shalimar Garden Extension-2, Ghaziabad. They were found dead by hanging on December 17, 2024.
The Incident and Investigation
Upon discovering a suicide note at the scene, the Shalimar Garden police registered a case under relevant provisions of Section 108 of the BNS Act 2023. The investigation revealed that the couple faced mounting financial and personal pressures, allegedly exacerbated by repeated threats from the accused.
Acting swiftly, the police apprehended the suspects near the Bhophura liquor shop in Shalimar Garden. The accused were identified as:
- Dhairya Negi (31), a resident of Shalimar Garden, originally from Jwalapur, Haridwar.
- Shyam (46), residing in Palam, Delhi, originally from Imphal, Manipur.
Details from Interrogation
During questioning, Dhairya Negi revealed that he, along with partners, had co-owned a club named “4 Quarters” in Cross River Mall, Delhi, in October 2021. Pankaj Gupta, the deceased, held a 50% stake in the club. However, due to operational challenges, the club shut down in December 2021, accumulating unpaid rent of approximately ₹48 lakh.
In 2023, the partners sold the club at a significant loss. Dhairya frequently demanded repayment from Pankaj Gupta, who was already reeling under financial distress. Pankaj had also suffered substantial losses after his Vestige marketing business in Sahibabad and other areas shut down in late 2022, leaving him in debt to several individuals.
Shyam, the second accused, acted on behalf of his friend Sopifson Kauthe from Manipur to recover unpaid rent of ₹2 lakh from the couple. Shyam admitted to intimidating the Guptas repeatedly, adding to their mental anguish.
Criminal Background
Both accused have two registered cases against them at Shalimar Garden police station for abetment of suicide. Investigations are ongoing to uncover any additional criminal history.
Police Statement
A senior police officer stated, “The arrests demonstrate our commitment to addressing cases of harassment and abetment. Financial disputes should not escalate to such tragic consequences. Citizens are urged to seek lawful remedies rather than resorting to coercion.”
The accused are now in custody, and legal proceedings are underway. The tragic incident highlights the need for robust mental health support and resolution mechanisms in financial disputes.
