Allegations mount against boyfriend in female pilot’s death

MUMBAI: The tragic death of Srushti Tuli (27), a female pilot who was found dead in her Mumbai flat on Monday, has taken a grim turn as her family levels serious allegations against her boyfriend, Aditya Pandit. Srushti’s family claims she was a victim of mental harassment, public humiliation and financial exploitation by Aditya, whom she had been in a relationship with for two years. They also allege the involvement of another female pilot and suspect that Srushti’s death was a planned murder, not a suicide.

According to Srushti’s uncle Vivek Tuli, Aditya constantly harassed her and interfered in her personal life, including her eating habits, reportedly asking her to avoid meat. He is accused of publicly humiliating Srushti and creating a toxic environment that led to her emotional breakdown. Despite his abusive behavior, Srushti chose to stay in the relationship, her family said.

Further, the family alleged that Aditya extorted money from Srushti, including a transfer of ₹65,000 to his family during Diwali. Vivek Tuli suspects Aditya was blackmailing her and believes financial disputes could have played a role in her death.

On the day of her death, Aditya reportedly called Srushti early in the morning and shortly afterward, she was found hanging in her flat using a data cable. The family's complaint highlights inconsistencies in Aditya’s actions, such as his decision to involve a locksmith to open the door instead of immediately calling the police.

Aditya and another female pilot, who was present at the scene, were the first to enter the flat. The family questions how trained pilots could act without notifying the authorities first. “This appears premeditated. Srushti was strong and determined; she wouldn’t have taken her own life,” said Vivek Tuli.

Based on the family's complaint, Aditya Pandit has been arrested on charges of abetment to suicide. He is currently in police custody. The FIR also mentions his harassment and humiliation of Srushti, including monitoring her bank statements.

The family plans to approach Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for justice. They have demanded a thorough investigation alleging foul play in the incident.

Srushti, a native of Uttar Pradesh, had moved to Mumbai in June to pursue her career after completing her commercial pilot training in Delhi, where she met Aditya. Her family describes her as strong and ambitious, determined to make her mark in aviation.

Police are investigating the allegations and the circumstances surrounding her death. The involvement of the other pilot present at the scene is also being scrutinized.