The investigation into the deaths of three minor sisters in Ghaziabad has revealed a deeply troubled family background, prompting police to look beyond the initial narrative of online gaming addiction.
Three sisters died after fall from ninth floor
Pakhi (12), Prachi (14) and Nishika (16) died after jumping from the ninth floor of their apartment in Bharat City, a residential township in Ghaziabad, last Wednesday. The incident initially appeared to be linked to a dispute after their parents allegedly objected to their excessive mobile phone use and took away their devices.
Post-mortem examinations confirmed that the girls died due to head injuries caused by the fall. Police officials have stated that there were no signs of sexual assault.
Father’s statements under scrutiny
As the probe progressed, investigators began closely examining the family circumstances of the girls’ father, Chetan Kumar. Police sources said his statements regarding his marriages and household arrangements showed inconsistencies.
According to police, Kumar had three wives — Sujata, Hina and Tina — and five children, all of whom reportedly lived in a single room of a three-bedroom flat. The timeline of his marriages and the ages of the children raised questions during questioning.
A senior police officer said Kumar initially concealed details about one of his marriages and has since changed his statements multiple times.
Diary, phones sent for forensic analysis
Police recovered a diary, reportedly written by the girls, expressing frustration over restrictions on access to online content. The minors’ mobile phones, including one sold shortly before the incident, have been traced and sent for forensic examination to reconstruct events leading up to the tragedy.
Another aspect under review is a 2018 incident involving the death of a woman related to the family, which was earlier recorded as accidental.
Financial stress and investigation ongoing
Police also revealed that Kumar is under severe financial stress, with debts reportedly amounting to ₹2 crore. Investigators are examining whether economic hardship, domestic conditions, and other pressures played a role.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Atul Kumar Singh said the investigation remains open and all angles are being examined to determine the exact circumstances behind the deaths.