Lucknow Woman Dies by Suicide: Accuses Businessman, Wife in Video

A 31-year-old woman died by suicide in Uttar Pradesh’s Lucknow, allegedly after facing prolonged mental harassment by a businessman, his wife and their associates. Before her death, the woman recorded a video in which she directly accused the individuals of mentally torturing her, prompting police to launch an investigation into the case. One accused has been arrested so far, while the main accused and his wife remain absconding.

The deceased, identified as Ratna Singh, worked as a salon manager and was found dead on May 12 at an apartment in the Shalimar One World complex in Gomtinagar Vistar area. In the video recorded before her death, Ratna allegedly named businessman Sharad Singh, his wife Pallavi Joshi, along with Vaishali, Mangal Yadav and other members of the family, accusing them of sustained harassment and intimidation.

Following the complaint filed by the victim’s father, Sudhir Kumar Singh of Gorakhpur, police registered a case and began action against the accused. Mangal Yadav, who reportedly worked in Sharad Singh’s hotel business and is a resident of Deoria district, has been arrested and sent to jail. Police have also sealed the businessman’s hotel and salon establishments as part of the ongoing investigation.

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According to the victim’s family, Sharad Singh allegedly exploited Ratna and repeatedly threatened her whenever she resisted. Her father claimed the businessman warned her that he would harm her family and tarnish the reputation of her sisters. The family further alleged that when Ratna’s marriage was fixed with another person, Sharad Singh allegedly sent private call recordings and videos to the groom’s family, resulting in the marriage being called off.

The allegations have triggered outrage among the victim’s relatives, who claim that some influential people are attempting to shield the accused. Family members alleged that certain senior police officials are close to Sharad Singh and are trying to protect him from immediate arrest. Police, however, said efforts are underway to trace the absconding accused and further action will be taken based on evidence collected during the investigation.

Investigators said Sharad Singh runs a company named Virasat and is also involved in the real estate business. Officials are currently examining the victim’s video statement, digital records and other evidence connected to the case. The incident has once again drawn attention to cases involving alleged harassment, intimidation and mental abuse leading to suicide.

If you or someone you know is struggling emotionally, support is available through mental health helplines and professional counselling services.

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