Delhi, a woman and her lover have been apprehended for the cold-blooded murder of her husband, a crime that was meticulously planned and executed with the aid of modern technology. What initially appeared as a tragic accident has now unfolded into a tale of betrayal, deceit, and digital forensics. This case, reported on July 19, 2025, has gripped the nation, shedding light on the dark side of relationships and the power of digital evidence in solving crimes.
Details of the Crime
The victim, Karan Dev, a 36-year-old resident of Delhi’s Uttam Nagar, was found dead on July 13, 2025. His wife, Sushmita, aged 35, initially claimed that Karan had died due to an accidental electrocution at their home in Dwarka. However, the truth was far more sinister. Investigations revealed that Sushmita, along with her lover Rahul, a 24-year-old paternal cousin of Karan, had orchestrated a murder plot.
The duo first attempted to kill Karan by administering 15 sleeping pills, hoping to cause a fatal overdose. When this method failed, they resorted to electrocution, applying an electric current to Karan’s finger to stage the death as an accident. Disturbingly, the planning of this crime was documented in Instagram chats between Sushmita and Rahul, where they discussed their methods and even conducted online searches for ways to kill someone, including queries about the lethal dose of sleeping pills and electrocution techniques.
Investigation and Arrest
The case took a dramatic turn on July 16, 2025, when Karan’s younger brother, Kunal Dev, discovered incriminating Instagram conversations between Sushmita and Rahul. These chats, which were handed over to the Delhi Police, provided a detailed account of the murder plot. Messages included chilling instructions, such as “Give him a shock if pills don’t work,” and references to their failed attempt to open Karan’s mouth to administer more pills.
Upon reviewing the evidence, the police registered a First Information Report (FIR) and arrested Sushmita and Rahul early on Saturday, July 19, 2025. During interrogation, both suspects confessed to their roles in the crime. The police also seized their mobile devices to gather further evidence, confirming that the electrocution was intentional and not accidental, as initially claimed. The autopsy, conducted at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital in Harinagar, further corroborated the police findings.
Motive Behind the Murder
Sushmita’s confession revealed a troubled marriage marked by domestic abuse. She alleged that Karan frequently slapped and verbally abused her, with one notable incident occurring before the Hindu festival of Karwa Chauth. Additionally, Karan reportedly demanded money from her, adding financial strain to their relationship. These grievances, combined with Sushmita’s extramarital affair with Rahul, appear to have fueled the decision to eliminate Karan. The police are also investigating whether financial motives, such as potential inheritance or insurance benefits, played a role in the crime.
Legal Proceedings
As of July 21, 2025, Sushmita and Rahul remain in custody, facing murder charges under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. The Delhi Police are continuing their investigation, focusing on the duration of the affair between Sushmita and Rahul and any additional factors that may have contributed to the crime. The seized mobile devices are being analyzed for further digital evidence, which could strengthen the case against the suspects.
The Role of Digital Evidence
This case underscores the growing significance of digital forensics in modern criminal investigations. The Instagram chats, which served as the linchpin in unraveling the murder plot, highlight how digital footprints can expose even the most carefully planned crimes. The discovery of these messages by Kunal Dev not only brought the perpetrators to justice but also demonstrated the power of technology in aiding law enforcement. This incident serves as a stark reminder that in the digital age, seemingly private conversations can become critical evidence.