PANCHKULA, HARYANA — A devastating incident unfolded in Panchkula’s Sector 27 on Tuesday morning as seven members of the same family were found dead in a parked car in what police believe to be a case of collective suicide, allegedly driven by severe financial and emotional distress.
The deceased have been identified as Praveen Mittal, his wife Reena, parents Deshraj and Vimla, twin 11-year-old daughters Dhruvika and Dalisha, and 14-year-old son Hardik. Authorities say poisoning appears to be the preliminary cause of death.
Final Words
A two-page note, reportedly found inside the car, suggests Praveen Mittal was under immense financial pressure. “I have gone bankrupt. I am responsible for all this,” he wrote, pleading that his father-in-law not be harassed and requesting that his cousin perform the family’s last rites.
According to police, Praveen, who ran a travel and tour business in Dehradun, had suffered heavy losses, which may have pushed the family into despair. The car’s rear windshield had been covered with a towel—possibly to avoid detection—and all seven were discovered unresponsive inside the vehicle.
Community in Shock
Additional Commissioner of Police Vikram Nehra stated that only Praveen was alive when the bodies were found, but he succumbed at the hospital. DCP Himadri Kaushik confirmed that while suicide is the likely cause, the investigation is exploring all angles, including financial and psychological factors.
The bodies have been transferred to Civil Hospital in Sector 6 for autopsies. Police are also interviewing neighbours, relatives, and school contacts to piece together the family’s recent experiences and stressors.
“Quiet, Reserved, and Kind”
Shocked neighbours described the Mittals as quiet and well-behaved. “We never imagined anything like this,” said a local resident. “The children were so bright and polite. This is beyond heartbreaking.”
School officials are reportedly preparing grief counselling for classmates and teachers affected by the loss.
A Growing Mental Health Crisis?
This tragedy brings renewed attention to mental health awareness and financial crisis intervention in India, particularly among small business owners impacted by recent economic downturns. Experts say there is an urgent need for more accessible mental health support and debt-relief options for struggling families.
If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of self-harm, please contact a mental health professional or reach out to a national suicide prevention helpline.
