The estranged wife of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash, who died by suicide on December 9, has denied allegations of harassment and extortion levied against her. Speaking during police interrogation, 29-year-old Nikita Singhania claimed that she had been living apart from Subhash for three years and alleged she was the one harassed during their troubled marriage.
“If I harassed him for money, why would I stay away from him?” Nikita was quoted as saying by The Times of India. Subhash, 34, left behind a video message and a 24-page handwritten note accusing Nikita and her family of harassment, which he stated pushed him to take the extreme step.
Key Developments in Bengaluru Techie’s Case
Nikita, along with her mother, Nisha (54), and brother, Anurag (27), was arrested under charges of abetment to suicide. The arrests took place in separate locations—Nikita was detained near Hongkong Bazar Road in Gurugram, while her mother and brother were apprehended in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. All three were transported to Bengaluru, subjected to medical examinations, and remanded to 14 days of judicial custody at the Central Prison, Parappana Agrahara.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Whitefield) Shivakumar Gunare confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. Forensic analysis is being conducted on Subhash’s digital devices and handwritten notes, which have been taken as evidence. Gunare also dismissed rumors of missing evidence, asserting that all documents have been securely presented to the court.
Claims and Counterclaims
Nikita has refuted the allegations made in Subhash’s suicide note. She insisted that she was the victim of harassment, citing a 2022 police complaint she filed accusing Subhash of dowry-related harassment and physical assault. “He started treating our relationship like a beast,” she stated, alleging that Subhash used to beat her and that his family’s excessive dowry demands—including dissatisfaction with wedding gifts and an additional ₹10 lakh—had caused severe distress in her family. She claimed the resulting stress led to her father’s declining health and eventual death.
However, Subhash’s suicide note contradicted her claims, accusing Nikita of fabricating stories. He stated that her father’s death was not due to dowry demands but a heart-related ailment. The suicide note further detailed instances of alleged harassment by Nikita and her family, which Subhash claimed had left him financially and emotionally devastated.
Concerns Over Child’s Welfare
Amid the legal proceedings, Subhash’s family expressed concerns for the welfare of his four-year-old son, whose whereabouts remain unclear. The police are reportedly looking into this matter as part of the broader investigation.
What Lies Ahead?
The police have assured that a comprehensive investigation will be conducted. “We are examining all aspects thoroughly. If allegations against Nikita and her family are substantiated, a chargesheet will be filed promptly,” said DCP Shivakumar Gunare.
The tragic case, which has brought into focus issues of marital discord and harassment, continues to unfold as investigators delve deeper into the conflicting claims of both parties.