Atul Subhash’s suicide sparks debate on legal reforms and gender bias

The tragic suicide of Bengaluru-based techie Atul Subhash has ignited a widespread discussion about harassment, extortion, and potential reforms in the legal system. Subhash, who allegedly faced ongoing harassment from his wife and her family, left behind a distressing video and a 24-page note detailing the emotional and financial pressures he endured.

The Shocking Allegations:

Atul Subhash, a 34-year-old techie from Uttar Pradesh, died by suicide in his Bengaluru home, leaving behind a video in which he accused his estranged wife, Nikita Singhania, and her family of extorting crores of rupees from him. He claimed to have been subjected to multiple legal cases designed to extort money, with his wife’s family allegedly manipulating the legal system. “The money I earn is making my enemies stronger,” Subhash said in his video. “That same money will be used to destroy me, and this cycle will keep going.” His family has since filed a police complaint, alleging that his death was a result of abetment by his wife, her relatives, and even a judge.

Kangana Ranaut’s Controversial Remarks:

Actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut weighed in on the issue, condemning the role of “fake feminism” in the misuse of legal systems. Speaking to PTI, she expressed her shock at Subhash’s death and criticized the use of laws like Section 498A (related to dowry harassment) to extort money. “Fake feminism is condemnable. Extortion of crores of rupees was being done,” she stated. However, her remarks also included a controversial statement, claiming that in most marriage-related disputes, men are at fault. “In 99% of marriage cases, it’s the men who are at fault. That’s why such mistakes also happen,” she said, sparking a debate about gender bias and the complexities of marital conflicts.

Call for Legal Reforms:

Subhash’s family has called for justice and reforms in the legal system, highlighting that men, too, suffer from harassment and lack sufficient legal protection. Legal experts have also weighed in, with Senior Advocate Vikas Pahwa criticizing the misuse of Section 498A. He suggested that the law, intended to protect women from cruelty, has been exploited to extort money from husbands. Pahwa proposed making the law gender-neutral, allowing men to file complaints if they are victims of harassment. He also recommended mandatory mediation before any formal charges are filed in such cases.

A Call for Balanced Legal Protections:

Atul Subhash’s death has underscored the urgent need for a more balanced legal system that ensures protection from harassment and exploitation for all individuals, regardless of gender. His family’s fight for justice continues, as they seek reforms that address the complexities of marital disputes and prevent further abuse of legal systems.

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