The death of Deepti Chaurasia, daughter-in-law of Kamal Kishor Chaurasia—owner of the Kamla Pasand pan masala brand—has escalated into a serious and emotionally charged criminal case, following allegations by her family that her death was not a simple suicide but the consequence of years of domestic harassment and violence. The incident, which occurred in Delhi’s upscale Vasant Vihar, has raised questions about the pressures faced by women in influential families and prompted calls for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into what the family describes as a “long pattern of cruelty.”

Deepti, 38, was found hanging in her room on November 25. According to Delhi Police, the initial discovery was made by the family, after which her husband rushed her to a nearby hospital, where she was declared dead on arrival. While the police treated the incident as an alleged suicide, allegations made by Deepti’s mother and brother have broadened the scope of the investigation. An FIR has been registered against her husband and mother-in-law on charges of cruelty and abetment to suicide.

Allegations of Continuous Abuse

In her complaint to the police, Deepti’s mother described a troubling and sustained pattern of physical and mental harassment allegedly inflicted upon her daughter since shortly after her marriage on December 2, 2010. Within months of the wedding, Deepti reportedly began confiding in her family about mistreatment at the hands of both her husband and his family members.

According to the complaint, the harassment was not limited to occasional confrontations but spanned over the years, manifesting in both physical violence and emotional degradation. The mother claimed that whenever Deepti confronted her husband or mother-in-law about their behaviour, the family would offer assurances that the incidents would not be repeated. However, the alleged cruelty persisted, creating a stressful and hostile environment for Deepti within her marital home.

The mother further stated that Deepti’s mother-in-law played an active role in isolating her from social and family life. She alleged that Deepti was deliberately excluded from family gatherings, criticised before relatives and acquaintances, and subjected to what she described as systematic defamation in social circles. This emotional isolation, coupled with marital issues, formed what the complainant called a “long pattern of cruelty” that left her daughter vulnerable and distressed.

Events Leading Up to the Death

The circumstances in the days preceding Deepti’s death have become a critical part of the investigation. According to her mother, Deepti had shared with her family that she and her husband had argued after he returned from an international trip shortly before her death. While the specific nature of the dispute remains unclear, the tension reportedly added to pre-existing marital strains.

On the morning of November 25, around 7:30 am, Deepti had a conversation with her mother. During the call, she mentioned the argument with her husband and also enquired about her father’s health. Her mother said she advised her to remain calm and reassured her that things would improve.

Later that morning, around 11:30 am, Deepti’s mother attempted to call her again but received no response. Concerned, she contacted Deepti’s mother-in-law, who allegedly replied that Deepti had gone out. Growing increasingly uneasy, she then contacted Deepti’s husband, who said he was on his way home. Shortly afterwards, around noon, the family received the call that Deepti had been taken to the hospital. By the time they arrived, she had already been declared dead.

According to police, Deepti was found hanging from a ceiling fixture in a room of the Vasant Vihar residence. The investigation team documented the scene and sent the body for post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause and conditions of death.

Diary Entries and ‘Relationship Issues’

During the forensic examination of the room, police found a personal diary belonging to Deepti. A senior police officer familiar with the investigation said the diary contained references to “relationship issues,” suggesting ongoing emotional turmoil. Although no specific names or direct accusations were recorded in that particular entry, investigators noted that the written reflections were consistent with someone experiencing prolonged distress.

While the diary is only one piece of evidence, it has become a point of interest for the police as they attempt to establish whether the alleged harassment had a direct connection with her decision to end her life.

Additional Allegations from the Family

Deepti’s brother has also made serious allegations. He claimed that Deepti was being “harassed” and “tortured” by both her husband and in-laws. Most notably, he alleged that her husband had illegally married another woman without informing the family. He said that this revelation came to light only recently, adding another possible layer of distress in Deepti’s marital relationship. Such an allegation, if proved, could have major legal implications for the accused and could further strengthen the family’s demand for a more expansive and independent investigation.

As of now, the businessman’s family has not publicly responded to these allegations.

Call for a CBI Investigation

Given the influential background of the accused and the gravity of the allegations, Deepti’s mother has demanded a CBI investigation into her daughter’s death. She expressed concerns about potential bias or interference that could affect the transparency and fairness of the investigation. Citing her daughter’s history of mental trauma allegedly inflicted by her marital family, she argued that only a central agency with greater autonomy and investigative reach could ensure that the truth emerges.

Delhi Police have stated that the investigation remains ongoing and that all angles—including allegations of harassment, extramarital relationships, and possible abetment—are being examined. They also confirmed that charges were filed promptly based on the complaint, and further developments will depend on forensic reports, witness statements, and digital evidence.

Broader Social Context and Sensitivity of Suicide Cases

The case highlights, once again, the often unspoken but pervasive issue of domestic violence, including in affluent or socially influential families. Many women, despite their education or financial background, find themselves trapped in emotionally or physically abusive relationships with limited support systems. In several cases, the stigma associated with speaking out or the fear of social repercussions keeps victims silent until the situation becomes unbearable.

While the investigation is still at an early stage, Deepti Chaurasia’s death serves as a somber reminder of the urgent need for stronger protective mechanisms for women and more robust intervention in cases of domestic abuse.

Suicides are a deeply sensitive issue, and openly discussing them can be distressing. It is essential to remember that suicides are preventable, and timely intervention, emotional support, and access to mental-health resources can save lives. In India, several suicide prevention helplines are available, including 011-23389090 (Sumaitri, Delhi) and 044-24640050 (Sneha Foundation, Chennai), offering confidential support to individuals in crisis.

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