A well-known builder from Nagpur died under mysterious circumstances earlier this week, leading to controversy and serious allegations. Family and close associates claim he was being financially harassed by moneylenders with political connections. While police have registered the case as an accidental death, many believe it could be a suicide caused by rising debt and constant pressure from powerful lenders.
The deceased, Ashutosh Arvind Naik (54), a resident of Vasant Nagar, was a builder by profession and had been involved in several real estate projects across Nagpur.
Pesticide Exposure Cited, but Suicide Angle Emerges
According to Pratapnagar Police, the incident took place on July 18, when Ashutosh Naik was working on his farmland in Adegaon, which falls under the Kondhali Police Station limits. While spraying pesticide on the crops, it is suspected that the toxic chemical entered his body, making him severely ill. He was immediately taken to a private hospital in the Pratapnagar area, where he passed away early on Tuesday. Police registered the case as an accidental death, and his body was sent for postmortem.
However, sources close to the family and people familiar with the matter have raised doubts. They claim that Ashutosh was under extreme mental pressure due to large unpaid loans taken from several individuals — some of whom are allegedly connected to local BJP leaders (PB).
Loans Worth Crores, Threats and Assault Alleged
Ashutosh had reportedly taken loans from nearly 7-8 individuals to finance his real estate ventures, including a major project near LAD College. The loan amounts are said to range from a few lakhs to over ₹1.5 crore. As his financial situation worsened, lenders allegedly began putting intense pressure on him, with some even approaching the Bajaj Nagar Police Station to file complaints. However, no FIR was registered at that time.
Sources allege that just two days before his death, one of the politically connected lenders visited Ashutosh at his residence to demand repayment. A heated argument reportedly turned violent, and Ashutosh was allegedly assaulted during the confrontation. Family members observed that he appeared visibly shaken and mentally disturbed after the incident.
Investigation Transferred to Kondhali Police
Although initial statements were recorded at Pratapnagar Police Station, the farmland where the incident occurred is under the jurisdiction of Kondhali Police. The case has now been officially handed over to them.
Kondhali Police officials confirmed that an accidental death case has been registered. “The postmortem report is awaited, and further inquiry will involve statements from family members as well as a review of the deceased’s financial and legal dealings,” an officer stated.
Family Awaits Answers
The family has claimed that Ashutosh was exposed to pesticide while working on his farmland, which led to his sudden illness. However, they have also acknowledged the possibility that mental stress from mounting debts and threats may have contributed to his condition.
The incident has once again brought attention to alleged illegal moneylending operations and the involvement of politically connected individuals. With growing public interest and concern, authorities are now under pressure to ensure a transparent and impartial investigation.
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