In Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, 19‑year‑old Kunal Chandgude and his parents fell to their deaths from a hill. Police say a family dispute drove Kunal toward suicide, even as he harbored hopes of reconciling his parents and pursuing an MBBS degree.
- Kunal attempted suicide on a hill after a family dispute escalated.
- His father Murli Dhar and mother Sangeeta also fell while trying to rescue him.
- The family claims Kunal dreamed of becoming a doctor and wanted his parents to reconcile.
Chronology of the Incident
On the morning of August 24, 2026, 19‑year‑old Kunal Chandgude left home at around 8 AM to attend classes at Akash Institute in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. When he did not appear in class by 9:10 AM, his mother contacted the institute, prompting a search.
Local villagers reported seeing Kunal on the Khuvadiya hill between 10:45 AM and 11:30 AM. Police, fire‑brigade personnel, and several relatives rushed to the spot. While attempting to persuade Kunal, his father Murli Dhar Chandgude tried to grab his hand; both lost balance and fell roughly 300 feet.
Seconds later, Kunal’s mother Sangeeta Chandgude leapt from the hill, also falling to her death. All three bodies were taken to the valley hospital at 2:30 PM for post‑mortem examinations.
Underlying Family Tensions
Family members argue that the dispute stemmed from property issues and long‑standing marital strain. Relatives of Sangeeta claim that Murli Dhar’s parents never approved of their love marriage, leading to lingering resentment.
Conversely, Kunal’s aunt, Shobha Rajendra Maskey, says the couple’s relationship had been fraught for over two decades, with frequent arguments over finances and inheritance.
Kunal had scored 82% in his Class‑10 CBSE exams this year and aspired to pursue an MBBS degree. Friends and neighbours described him as a diligent student with a calm demeanor.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that unresolved family conflicts coupled with a lack of mental‑health support can culminate in fatal outcomes, highlighting an urgent need for counseling services in rural India.
"When families are unable to access professional counseling during crises, tragedies like this become far more likely," notes psychologist Dr. Anjali Singh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Has the police officially ruled Kunal’s death as a suicide?
A: Yes, investigators concluded that a family dispute prompted Kunal to attempt suicide on the hill.
Q2: Are any legal proceedings underway?
A: The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are awaiting testimonies from relatives and witnesses.