Pune police allege that a murder plot against realtor Ketan Agarwal was conceived in February 2023 and carried out in June 2023 [1], [2].
The case highlights a complex conspiracy involving a romantic partner and a third party, raising questions about premeditation and financial motives in a high-profile crime.
Investigators said the conspiracy was hatched during a trip to Udaipur, Rajasthan [1]. According to a police spokesperson, "The conspiracy was hatched as early as February during a trip to Udaipur" [1]. The plot allegedly aimed to prevent Agarwal's marriage to his fiancée, Siya Goyal, and sought financial gain [3], [4].
Police identified Chetan Chaudhary as a co-accused in the scheme. Evidence suggests a high level of coordination between the suspects. Investigating officer Rajesh Sharma said, "Over 2,004 calls were exchanged between the accused, indicating pre‑meditation" [2].
While police focus on the February timeline, other reports suggest the murder may have been driven by blackmail from Goyal's lover rather than a long-term plan [3]. There are also conflicting accounts regarding the couple's status at the time of the initial plot. Some reports state they became engaged in February 2023 [1], while others suggest they were only dating during that period [3].
In her statement, Goyal addressed the pressure surrounding the relationship. "I told Ketan I couldn't escape marriage because of his family," Goyal said [4].
The victim died in June 2023 in Pune, Maharashtra [1], [2]. Police continue to examine the events surrounding the Udaipur trip to determine how the plot was finalized.
“"The conspiracy was hatched as early as February during a trip to Udaipur,"”
The discrepancy between police allegations of a long-term plot and claims of sudden blackmail suggests a critical legal battle over 'intent.' If the prosecution proves the conspiracy began in February 2023, the 2,004 phone calls become central evidence of a calculated execution rather than a crime of passion or coercion.
