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Delhi Cafe Owner’s Suicide Sparks Allegations of Harassment by Estranged Wife

Suicide

The tragic death of Puneet Khurana, a 40-year-old co-owner of Delhi’s popular Woodbox Cafe, has led to serious allegations by his family against his estranged wife, Manika Pahwa.

Khurana was found hanging in his home in Model Town’s Kalyan Vihar area on New Year’s Eve. The couple, who had been separated for two years, were in the midst of divorce proceedings.

Family Alleges Harassment

Khurana’s family has accused Ms. Pahwa and her family of mentally harassing and pressuring him, which they claim led him to take the extreme step. His sister told news agency ANI that Ms. Pahwa and her family “instigated him by saying, ‘You can’t do anything, die by suicide if you dare.’” The family also alleged that she repeatedly demanded her share in their jointly owned businesses, For God’s Cake bakery and Woodbox Cafe, despite a division of assets already being agreed upon during the divorce process.

The sister further revealed that Khurana recorded a 59-minute video before his death, detailing the alleged harassment. The video has been handed over to the police but has not been shared with the family.

Tensions Over Business Dispute

The dispute between Khurana and Pahwa reportedly centered around their shared business ventures. After separating, it was decided that Khurana would manage For God’s Cake, while Pahwa retained ownership of Woodbox Cafe.

However, Khurana’s family claimed that Ms. Pahwa continued to demand a share in the bakery, which had already been allocated to him. “She kept calling him and demanding her share. When the matter was already decided in court, she should have raised her concerns there instead of harassing him. She even hacked his Instagram account and misbehaved with people through it,” the sister alleged.

Social Media Posts Add to Tensions

Less than a week before Khurana’s death, Ms. Pahwa posted on Instagram, referencing “toxicity and narcissistic abuse” and describing herself as “free.” While the post did not explicitly name anyone, it hinted at ongoing conflicts.

Ms. Pahwa wrote, “Kindness, love, understanding, trust, wisdom, affection & care hold much more importance than money, property & gold. I just wish these abusers get to see the mirror someday.”

Mother’s Plea for Justice

Khurana’s mother expressed anguish over her son’s death, blaming Ms. Pahwa for causing him mental distress. “He never shared his pain with us, fearing it would upset us. She tortured him so much that he was compelled to take this step. I have lost my son and want justice for him,” she said.

Police Investigation Underway

The Delhi Police have registered a complaint and are investigating the matter. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Northwest) Bhisham Singh confirmed that Khurana’s death was linked to ongoing marital discord and disputes over the business. The police have questioned Ms. Pahwa and her family and are examining counterclaims.

A post-mortem report is awaited, and officials have assured action based on the findings. “If complications arise, we will form a board and proceed accordingly,” DCP Singh stated.

Similarities with Other Cases

The incident has drawn parallels with the recent suicide of Atul Subhash, a techie from Uttar Pradesh, who left a detailed video and note alleging harassment by his estranged wife before ending his life.

Community Reactions

The case has sparked discussions about the pressures of personal and professional conflicts and the need for timely intervention to prevent such tragedies. Khurana’s family has called for stringent action, hoping for justice for their son.

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