Delhi Cafe Owner Puneet Khurana Dies by Suicide Amid Divorce and Business Dispute; Wife Under Investigation

New Delhi, January 1, 2025 – A leading cafe owner in Delhi, Puneet Khurana, took his own life on Tuesday evening, amidst rising tensions over his divorce and disputes with his wife, Manika Jagdish Pahwa, over his business. Puneet Khurana, who is the co-founder of the popular bakery “For God’s Cake” and the now-shut “Woodbox Cafe,” was found hanging in his room in the Kalyan Vihar area of Model Town.

Puneet Khurana, 34, and his wife were in the process of divorce, with reports indicating that the couple was embroiled in a dispute over their shared business interests. According to police officials, Khurana’s family mentioned that he had been ‘upset’ with his wife, who allegedly had financial demands regarding the businesses they co-owned.

Shock audio reveals Manika speaking about a divorce, said: “We are getting divorced, but still a business partner.you should settle my claims”. The clip, accessed by NDTV from sources close to Manika and Manu had allegedly reflected how the financial settling part of separation made her an unsatisfied and a disappointed party in the issue.

The police have taken Khurana’s mobile phone for further investigation and summoned Manika for questioning. They are trying to put together the circumstances under which he died in a tragic accident and possible connections to financial disputes that are still being scrutinized.

This is an incident similar to another suicide case that recently came to the fore in Bengaluru. A techie, Atul Subhash allegedly committed suicide over a demand for a Rs 3 crore divorce settlement from his wife, Nikita Singhania. The two incidents show how the effects of financial and emotional pressures due to break-downs of relationships can be disastrous, while some people are left believing they have no way out of this predicament.

Authorities are investigating whether Puneet Khurana’s suicide was influenced by harassment or financial extortion. Investigations are also ongoing in the case of Atul Subhash, whose death sparked public outcry and led to arrests of his wife and her family.

Puneet Khurana and Subhash cases are a grim reminder of the mental health problems of individuals facing personal and financial stress. Experts say that one should seek help and support in difficult times and take measures to prevent tragic consequences of emotional distress.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to support services such as Aasra (022-27546669), Sneha (044-24640050), Sumaitri (011-23389090), or any of the other national helplines listed. It is important to know that help is available.