Newlywed Akriti Sutar, 28, was found dead after falling from a third-floor residential complex in Delhi's Lodhi Colony on Saturday evening, with her family alleging dowry harassment and murder. Police have initiated mandatory inquest proceedings as the death occurred within seven years of marriage.
Family Denies Depression, Says Akriti Was Cheerful
Akriti's family rejected suggestions of depression or suicide. They stated she spoke cheerfully to her mother around 6 pm on Saturday, telling her she was returning home from an office party she hosted for colleagues. Her uncle, Mananjay Sutar, said the family received a call from her husband, Arastu Sikka, around 8 pm claiming she had gone missing. About 90 minutes later, police informed them that a woman's body had been found at Palika Kunj in Lodhi Colony, nearly 10 km from the couple's residence in Pushp Vihar.
Body Found, Family Alleges Dowry Demands
The body was discovered around 9 pm and rushed to AIIMS, where doctors declared her brought dead. Akriti worked as a sales executive in Chhatarpur and had returned to work after her marriage on April 24. Her family alleged she faced repeated harassment over a demand for Rs 20 lakh in dowry. They claimed her husband and relatives pressured her since the marriage, and that a serious argument occurred just two days before her death. Her younger brother stated she was mentally strong and would never have taken her own life.
Police Investigation Underway
Police said the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) has been informed, and statements of family members and witnesses are being recorded. Investigators are examining all angles, including the dowry harassment allegations. No arrests have been made so far.
