In a heart-wrenching incident in Uttar Pradesh's Shahjahanpur, a couple and their four-month-old son were found dead in their home on August 26, 2025. The tragic event appears to be a case of suicide driven by extreme financial distress.
Sachin Grover (30), a handloom businessman, and his wife Shivani (28) were discovered in separate rooms of their residence in Durga Enclave Colony. Their four-month-old son was found lying on the bed. Neighbors grew concerned when the family's house remained unusually quiet, prompting them to alert the authorities. Police investigations suggest that the child may have been poisoned. The couple was found hanging from the ceiling. All three were immediately rushed to a hospital, where doctors confirmed their deaths. Post-mortem examinations are underway to determine the exact cause of death.
Authorities recovered a suicide note detailing the family's financial struggles. Sachin Grover had been facing difficulties related to his handloom business, which may have led to immense distress within the household.
This devastating incident shines a spotlight on the growing issue of financial distress leading to suicides in India. A similar incident occurred in Saharanpur earlier this year when a couple poisoned themselves and their children due to high debt and harassment from a finance company. In that instance, the woman and one of their children died. In Surat, a family of three died by suicide because of the pressure to return a ₹1 lakh advance payment for a property they were trying to sell. These are not isolated cases. Data from previous years indicates a worrying trend. In 2020, there was a 24% jump in suicides due to unemployment in India.
Financial problems, including debt, poverty, unemployment and the stress of these situations, can significantly increase the risk of suicide. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues, with lockdowns disrupting support systems and creating widespread financial insecurity. The increase in family suicides suggests a deep-rooted societal problem that needs attention. Social isolation, lack of support, and feelings of being a burden can also contribute to suicidal thoughts.
It is important to remember that help is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a mental health specialist or a crisis hotline. Some resources include:
Effective prevention strategies include limiting access to methods of suicide, treating mental health disorders and substance abuse, responsible media reporting, and improving economic conditions.
