Bengaluru Techie Suicide Case: Estranged wife Nikita claims Rs 10 lakh dowry demand led to her father's death

The family of Nikita Singhania, estranged wife of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash, denied any involvement in his death by suicide, which occurred two days ago. Atul, 34, reportedly left behind a 24-page suicide note and an 81-minute video accusing Nikita and her family of harassment. The allegations arise amid an ongoing divorce and child custody battle in a family court in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh.

Techie's Wife Nikita Singhania's Family Refutes Allegations

Addressing the media in Jaunpur, Nikita's uncle Sushil Singhania dismissed the claims made in the video. "Neither I nor any family member was present at the scene. The claims made in the video will be addressed by Nikita shortly," he stated. He further added that the family had not been in contact with Atul for the past three years. "We are not guilty, and we trust the court to deliver a fair judgment," he said.

Also read: Atul Subhash suicide: After asking man to pay Rs 5 crore in an old divorce case, SC lists 8 factors to decide alimony

Atul Subhash's Suicide Note and Accusations

Atul’s brother Bikas Kumar lodged a complaint, alleging that Nikita's family demanded ₹3 crore to withdraw police cases and Rs 30 lakh to grant Atul visitation rights to see his four-year-old son. The video left by Atul showed him wearing a board with the message "Justice is Due."

Atul Family's Dowrt Demand led to Father's Death: Nikita Alleged

The legal battle began with an FIR filed by Nikita on April 24, 2022, accusing Atul, his parents, and brother of dowry harassment. Nikita alleged that after their marriage in 2019, Atul’s family demanded ₹10 lakh as dowry. A subsequent demand for another Rs 10 lakh allegedly led to her father's death the next day.

Nikita also claimed that on May 17, 2021, Atul assaulted her and her mother, prompting her to leave for her parental home.

Atul Refuted Dowry Allegation

In his suicide note, Atul refuted the dowry allegations and claimed that Nikita lived with her in-laws for only two days before moving to Bengaluru. He denied any link between her father's death and dowry demands, stating that her father had long-standing health issues.

Nikita Singhania's Family Fled Jaunpur

Late Wednesday, Nikita’s residence in Jaunpur's Khoya Mandi area was found locked. Neighbors suggested the family might have fled, fearing action from Bengaluru police. Earlier in the evening, Nikita's mother and brother were reportedly seen at the house but avoided speaking to journalists.

Nikita's lawyer, Vinod Srivastava, defended the court’s actions, stating that judicial officer Rita Kaushik acted within the law. The Jaunpur civil court had earlier ruled on child custody and alimony in July 2024.

The case continues to unfold as police and legal authorities examine the claims and counterclaims.