Nagpur — The tragic hit-and-run death of 82-year-old Purushottam Puttewar has been exposed as a deliberate and sinister murder orchestrated by his daughter-in-law, Archana Manish Puttewar, to acquire the family property valued at Rs 300 crore.
Archana, who works as an assistant director in the town planning department, was detained last week, over two weeks after the fatal incident. The arrest follows a detailed investigation that revealed Archana’s meticulous planning and financial investment in the murder plot.
The Plot Unveiled:
According to a police officer speaking to PTI, Archana allocated around Rs 1 crore to facilitate the murder. She reportedly financed the purchase of a used vehicle, which was then used by the perpetrators to run over Purushottam, making the incident appear as an accidental hit-and-run. “The motive appears to be to gain control over property valued at Rs 300 crore,” the officer stated.
Co-Conspirators and Arrests:
Archana, 53, is accused of conspiring with her husband’s driver, Bagde, and two other individuals, Neeraj Nimje and Sachin Dharmik. The police have charged all involved with murder and other related offenses under the IPC and Motor Vehicles Act. During the investigation, authorities seized two cars, gold jewelry, and mobile phones.
The Fatal Incident:
On the day of the incident, Purushottam Puttewar was returning from a hospital visit to his wife, Shakuntala, who was recovering from surgery, when he was struck by the hired vehicle. This well-coordinated act was aimed at removing Purushottam to secure control over the substantial family estate. Archana’s husband, Manish, is a doctor.
Professional Misconduct:
Additionally, the investigation has unveiled significant irregularities in Archana Puttewar’s professional conduct within the town planning department. Despite numerous complaints against her, no action had been taken due to her political connections. She is accused of violating regulations and approving illegal layouts. Her arrest on such serious charges may prompt a more extensive investigation into her professional activities.
Legal Proceedings:
The police are continuing their investigation into the murder plot, gathering evidence to ensure a robust case against Archana and her accomplices. The gravity of the charges against her, coupled with the revelations about her professional misconduct, suggest that she will face stringent legal scrutiny.
The family, reeling from the shock and betrayal, now seeks justice for the premeditated murder of Purushottam Puttewar. The community, too, is left stunned by the cold-blooded scheme devised to gain control over a massive fortune, highlighting the lengths some may go for wealth and power.
