On Friday, Ajay Gupta and Anil Gupta were taken into custody by Indian authorities in connection with the death of Satyendra Singh Sahni, a well-known builder in Dehradun.
Gupta brothers arrested in connection with a suicide case
The Gupta brothers, who have been embroiled in numerous controversies, are now facing serious charges related to abetting Sahni’s suicide.
According to multiple Indian news reports, Sahni left a suicide note addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In the note, he accused the Gupta brothers of threatening him over financial matters, which led to his tragic decision to take his own life.
Sahni detailed how Ajay and Anil had been pressuring him relentlessly regarding a partnership project, causing him immense stress and fear.
In 2023, Sahni’s son, Ranvir, lodged a formal complaint against the Gupta brothers.
He stated that his father had been constantly harassed and threatened by Ajay Gupta, son of Shiv Gupta, and Anil Gupta, son of Shyam Lal Gupta, both residents of Nehru Colony, Dalanwala.
Ranvir explained that his father faced continuous intimidation and blackmail over financial disputes.
“My father was constantly being threatened by Ajay Gupta and Anil Gupta over financial matters,” Ranvir Sahni said.
“A written complaint was submitted to the local police on 19 May 2023 about the Gupta brothers’ threats, harassment, intimidation, and blackmail.”
Adding to the distress, Ajay and Anil Gupta allegedly filed a false complaint with the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, which led to Sahni being repeatedly summoned by the Saharanpur police.
This persistent legal and psychological pressure further exacerbated Sahni’s troubles.
Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh confirmed the arrests, stating,
“Prima facie, the Gupta brothers have been detained based on their involvement in the case. Both will be produced in court on Saturday.”
Singh indicated that there was sufficient initial evidence to justify the detentions, although the investigation is ongoing.
The arrests of Ajay and Anil Gupta add to their long list of legal troubles.
The Gupta family has been at the centre of numerous scandals and investigations, particularly in South Africa, where they are accused of significant corruption and influence peddling.
Their alleged involvement in Sahni’s suicide only compounds their controversial reputation.
As the investigation proceeds, the Indian legal system will determine the extent of the Gupta brothers’ involvement and whether they will face additional charges.
In South Africa, there are many resourceful organisations that are ready to assist you and your loved one in dealing with suicidal triggers. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is the country’s largest mental health advocacy group, and their 24-hour hotline is free to use if you or a loved one needs help. You can reach them on 0800 456 789 (24 hours a day), SMS 31393, or visit their website for more info and help.