Bengaluru: In a tragic incident, a 34-year-old techie, Atul Subhash, died by suicide, leaving behind a 24-page note and an 80-minute video alleging prolonged harassment by his estranged wife, her family, and a judge. His death has sparked outrage, with his family demanding justice and highlighting systemic issues in the legal process.
Subhash’s family accused his wife, Nikita Singhania, her parents, and an uncle of financial and emotional harassment. They claim that escalating demands for child maintenance starting at ₹40,000 and later increasing to ₹1 lakh caused significant stress. Subhash’s uncle, Pawan Kumar, alleged that Nikita once told him to “commit suicide” if he couldn’t pay, an incident reportedly met with laughter by a judge.
The family asserts that Subhash had been fighting multiple legal battles, which, combined with alleged humiliation and financial strain, pushed him over the edge.
Subhash’s body was found hanging at his Bengaluru residence on Monday. A placard reading “Justice is due” was discovered at the scene. His video, uploaded to Rumble and now viral on social media, detailed his anguish:
“The money I earn is making my enemies stronger. That same money will be used to destroy me, and this cycle will keep going.”
Speaking to Subhash’s brother Bikas expressed frustration with the legal system. “Justice is only possible when decisions are based on facts, not corruption. Men are increasingly afraid of marriage, fearing they’ll become ATM machines,” he said.
Family members have also criticized the child maintenance system, questioning the necessity of such high financial demands for a four-year-old.
A police case of abetment to suicide has been registered against Subhash’s wife, her parents, and uncle. A team has been sent to Uttar Pradesh to question the accused.
Nikita’s uncle, Sushil Kumar, denied all allegations, stating, “We were not in contact with him during the last three years. The court will decide the case.” Nikita is expected to address the allegations soon.
Subhash’s death has reignited debates about men’s rights in marriage and the pressures of financial and emotional exploitation. Activists are calling for balanced legal reforms to protect all parties in marital disputes.
As investigations continue, Subhash’s family hopes their quest for justice will prevent similar tragedies in the future.