Businessman and Wife Die by Suicide; ED Harassment Alleged Due to Political Affiliation

Sehore, Madhya Pradesh: A businessman under investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and his wife were found dead at their residence in Sehore on Friday morning, in what authorities believe to be a case of suicide. Manoj Parmar and his wife, Neha, allegedly took the drastic step after enduring alleged harassment by ED officials, which Parmar attributed to his association with the Congress party.

A five-page note, purportedly left by Parmar, accused ED officials of assault during a raid on December 5. He claimed officials commented on a photograph of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in his home, saying it was the reason for the investigation.

Addressing Rahul Gandhi in the note, Parmar wrote, “After my death, the responsibility of these children is yours and the Congress’ so that a message goes out that the party stands with its workers.”

Sehore Superintendent of Police Deepak Kumar Shukla stated that an investigation is underway to verify the authenticity of the note and circumstances surrounding the deaths. No FIR has been registered yet.

Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh condemned the incident, claiming it highlights political targeting. “I demand a fair investigation from the ED Director,” Singh said. Meanwhile, BJP spokesperson Ashish Aggarwal accused the Congress of politicizing the tragedy for gain.

The ED had recently investigated Parmar for alleged misuse of Rs 6 crore in loans under government schemes and frozen bank accounts as part of its probe under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Parmar’s son and brother have alleged mental harassment by the ED, holding the agency responsible for the couple's deaths.