“Dared Him To Die”: Delhi Cafe Owner’s Family Blames Wife After Suicide

Puneet Khurana’s family accuses his estranged wife, Manika Pahwa, and her family of mental harassment, citing ongoing business disputes and emotional abuse.

January 1, 2025: New Delhi: The family of Puneet Khurana, a 40-year-old cafe owner who died by suicide at his Model Town residence, has accused his estranged wife, Manika Pahwa, and her family of mental harassment and emotional abuse, alleging they pushed him to the edge through continuous threats and pressure over their ongoing business dispute and divorce proceedings.

Delhi | Yesterday at 4.18 PM, information regarding suicide was received. On reaching the spot, one Puneet Khurana age 40 years was found lying on the bed in an irresponsive state with a ligature mark over his neck, who had committed suicide by hanging. He was shifted to BJRM…

— ANI (@ANI) January 1, 2025

Also Read: Delhi Café Owner Dies by Suicide Amid Divorce and Business Dispute with Wife

Allegations by Puneet’s Family:

• Puneet’s sister told ANI that Manika and her family allegedly provoked him by saying, “You can’t do anything, die by suicide if you dare.”
• Puneet reportedly left behind a video message on his phone detailing the mental harassment he endured from his wife and her family.
• The sister also claimed that Manika hacked Puneet’s Instagram account and misused it to misbehave with others, adding further strain to his mental health.

#WATCH | 40 -year old Puneet Khurana dies allegedly by suicide, his family levels charges of harassment against his wife and in-laws

The deceased's sister says, "Manika Pahwa, her sister and parents mentally tortured and harassed him. There is a video recording of around 59… pic.twitter.com/TfKfOBIZIE

— ANI (@ANI) January 1, 2025

Business Dispute and Legal Agreements:

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• The couple had previously agreed in court that Puneet would manage For God’s Bakery, while Manika would take over Woodbox Cafe.
• Despite the written agreement, Manika allegedly continued to demand a larger share, creating additional friction.

Mother’s Grief and Plea for Justice:

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Puneet’s mother revealed that he suffered in silence, trying to shield his parents from his emotional distress. She said, “My son was doing well, but she tortured him so much yesterday that he took this step. I lost my son, and I demand justice for him.”

Police Investigation:

• Police have recovered a recorded conversation from Puneet’s phone, which reportedly captures a heated argument between him and Manika over business matters.
• The family has formally filed a complaint against Manika and her family, urging authorities to take strict action.

Background of the Case:

• Puneet Khurana and Manika Pahwa married in 2016 and had been separated for two years.
• Divorce proceedings were ongoing, with the business dispute remaining unresolved.

This tragic incident has highlighted the mental toll of unresolved marital disputes and business conflicts. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are examining all evidence, including Puneet’s final video message and phone recordings.

This is a developing story, and further updates will follow.

Tags: Delhi Cafe Owner Suicide, Puneet Khurana, Manika Pahwa, Mental Harassment, Family Dispute, Business Conflict, Domestic Abuse, Suicide Case Delhi