Lucknow double murder-suicide case: Rs 1 crore divorce settlement demand emerges as possible motive
Lucknow double murder-suicide case: A fresh angle has emerged in the Lucknow double murder-suicide case, with the police investigating whether a dispute over a reported Rs 1 crore alimony demand played a role in the killings.
According to information, 38-year-old Manas Vajpayee allegedly shot his estranged wife, Divya Mishra, outside the ICICI Bank branch in Gomti Nagar on Thursday. He later allegedly killed his 28-year-old sister, Shiva Vajpayee, before taking his own life.
Manas and Divya had been married for around 12 years but had been living separately for more than a year. Divya had filed for divorce last year. Police sources said investigators have recovered documents related to the divorce proceedings. The documents reportedly contain details of the settlement discussions, including an alleged demand for Rs 1 crore as alimony.
The divorce matter was reportedly heard in court just two days before the killings. According to sources, the financial settlement was discussed during the hearing, and police are examining whether the dispute may have contributed to the crime.
However, the investigation is still underway and the alleged alimony demand has not been established as the sole motive.
Investigators are also looking into another issue that had reportedly caused tension between the couple. Manas' sister Shiva, who was 28, was reportedly dealing with mental health problems and had been staying with the couple. Sources said Divya was unhappy with the situation, which allegedly led to repeated arguments between the husband and wife.
The police are examining whether the dispute over Shiva's living arrangements and her condition added to the strain in the relationship.
Divya's sister Pragya Mishra, a YouTuber, has alleged that Manas had been abusive towards her sister. In a social media post, Pragya claimed that Manas would allegedly assault Divya over minor issues. She cited an incident involving a rotten tomato ordered through Blinkit as an example. Pragya also questioned how Manas managed to obtain the firearms used in the killings.
According to the police, Manas, who worked with the State Bank of India, called Divya to meet him outside the ICICI Bank branch where she worked.
After speaking with her for a few minutes, he allegedly opened fire. Divya was taken to a hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
Manas then allegedly returned to his home, where he shot his sister Shiva. A short while later, he died by suicide.
The police have also taken note of a WhatsApp status allegedly posted by Manas shortly before his death. In it, he claimed responsibility for killing his wife and sister and referred to his wife as having cheated on him.
The police are now examining the WhatsApp status, divorce documents, financial dispute and other evidence to establish what led to the deaths.
Also Read | Caught off guard: Sudden showers take Chandigarh residents by surprise; traffic police issue advisory
Also Read | Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand create history, end India’s 14-year women’s doubles medal wait
(Suicide is a serious mental health issue. If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately. Reach out to trusted family or friends, or contact the Government of India’s Jeevan Aastha helpline at 1800 233 3330 for support. You are not alone, and help is available.)
- With inputs from agencies
