A 23-year-old woman died after allegedly consuming a poisonous substance late on Saturday night, with her family attributing the incident to prolonged harassment linked to a financial dispute involving over ₹25 lakh.

The deceased, Karishma Verma, was found unconscious in her room around 11 pm by her father, Pawan Verma, who works at a private company. As her condition was critical, the family rushed her on a motorcycle to a private hospital in Kavi Nagar. She was later referred to a higher medical centre, where doctors declared her dead at 1.25 am.

Allegations of financial exploitation

According to Pawan Verma, Karishma had recently graduated from a private college and had been saving money for her marriage. Over the past 10 years, he had deposited substantial savings into her account, including proceeds from the sale of a plot of land.

He alleged that between 2023 and 2024, a childhood friend, her sister-in-law, and the friend’s boyfriend borrowed over ₹25 lakh from Karishma under the pretext of investments and loans, assuring repayment. When he later asked his daughter to withdraw funds, she reportedly broke down and disclosed that the money had been taken.

Pawan claimed that when he approached the friend seeking repayment, police were called and he was advised to pursue the matter in court, as it was deemed a financial dispute. A money recovery case has been pending before a Ghaziabad civil court for a year.

Prior suicide attempt alleged

Six months ago, Karishma had allegedly attempted suicide following threats from the same individuals after she sought repayment for her upcoming wedding. Her father said he submitted a written complaint to senior police officials, but no action followed.

Priyashri Pal, ACP of Wave City, stated that no formal complaint has been filed so far regarding the latest allegations. “We are verifying the claims made by the family and are awaiting a written complaint,” she said.

Police have initiated an inquiry to determine the circumstances leading to her death.

Mental health support

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