Couple Dies by Suicide in Zirakpur, Police Probe Alleged Job Fraud
A newly-wed couple from Barnala died by suicide at a paying guest accommodation in Zirakpur on Friday evening, according to police. The couple had reportedly lost Rs 36 lakh to a travel agent who had promised to help them settle abroad.
Hakam Singh (35) and his wife Gagandeep Kaur (23) consumed a poisonous substance at their PG accommodation, police said. Gagandeep died at the spot, while Hakam was rushed to a hospital in critical condition. He later succumbed during treatment, with Hakam breathing his last on Saturday morning, according to officials.
Police said Gagandeep was a resident of Sekhan village in Barnala district, and Hakam hailed from Mehmadpur (also referred to as Mahmadpur) village in the same district. The couple had been living at the PG accommodation for some time after their marriage.
Suicide Note Alleges Fraud by Schoolmate Turned Travel Agent
A purported seven-page suicide note recovered from the spot contains allegations against an agent who had allegedly taken money from the couple on the promise of sending them abroad. According to the note, the agent was Hakam's schoolmate, and the couple trusted him because of their old acquaintance. The couple claimed that they were neither sent abroad nor refunded their money, and the agent had allegedly stopped responding to their calls.
The note also detailed the couple's ordeal, including their alleged financial losses and failed attempts to go abroad. According to the note, the couple had a love marriage and hoped to build a life abroad.
Police Investigation and Case Registered
Zirakpur SHO Jasbir Singh said the police had seized the suicide note and registered a case of abetment to suicide against a Barnala-based travel agent at the Zirakpur police station.
"The role of the agent and the transactions involving Rs 36 lakh are being investigated. Statements of the couple's family members are being recorded. The possible role of a Zirakpur-based travel agent is also being investigated," the SHO said.
Different Figures in Headlines
While the body of the reports consistently mentions Rs 36 lakh as the amount lost, the headline of one report stated the couple was "duped of Rs 30 lakh." The other headline described the couple as "distressed reportedly over a Rs 36 lakh fraud" and noted they "allegedly consumed a toxic chemical compound." The reason for the discrepancy in the headline figure is not explained in the reports.