For five long years, Nidhi Kukreja has been a steadfast presence in courtroom number 55 of the Mumbai City Civil and Sessions Court, awaiting justice for her daughter Jhanvi. The verdict in the murder case of the 19-year-old psychology student has become the focal point of her life, as she balances her professional duties at a jewellery firm with an unwavering commitment to attend every hearing.
A Night That Changed Everything
On December 31, 2020, Jhanvi went out for a New Year's Eve party with her friends Diya Padalkar and Shree Jogdhankar. The celebration took place on the terrace of a friend's building in Khar, starting around 8 pm. Since January 1 was her father Prakash's birthday, Jhanvi returned home briefly to cut the cake with him at around 11.45 pm before leaving again on Shree's scooter. In the early hours of the morning, a phone call shattered the family's world forever.
Traumatic Memories and Unanswered Questions
Nidhi and Prakash have since stopped celebrating his birthday, as the date now brings back painful memories. "The past five years have been nothing but seeking justice for my daughter," Nidhi said. She often wonders if Jhanvi could have been saved had she been taken to the hospital in time, a regret that haunts her daily.
Balancing Act: Work and Court Dates
Despite her demanding job, Nidhi has meticulously managed her responsibilities to prioritize court appearances. "I did not want to miss even a single day of hearing," she emphasized. Over the years, she has attended most hearings alone, closely following the proceedings and consulting with the special public prosecutor to understand every detail of the trial.
The Long Road to Justice
Since 2021, Nidhi has been one of the most regular attendees at the hearings, driven by a mother's love and a quest for closure. Her dedication highlights the emotional toll on families navigating the judicial system, as they seek answers and accountability in the face of tragedy.
