Daijiworld Media Network - Pune
Pune, July 3: As police continue investigating the murder of Pune businessman Ketan Agarwal, the uncle of one of the accused, Chetan Chaudhary, has defended his nephew, describing him as a well-mannered and disciplined young man while expressing disbelief over the allegations against him.
Speaking to IANS on Friday, Udaram Chaudhary said Chetan had always maintained a respectable image and was never seen interacting closely with women.
"We are hearing many things in the media, but our family knows the truth. Chetan lived in our neighbourhood. I have never seen him sitting in a car with any girl or even talking to one. Even our regular customers never noticed anything of that sort. I have never seen him going aside to speak with any girl," he said.
Recalling Chetan's personality, Udaram said the allegations had come as a major shock to the family.
"He was a very sincere boy—simple by nature, always cheerful and friendly with everyone. He was also an excellent cricketer. Many people would come just to watch him bat because of his powerful hitting," he added.
Udaram further said the family had deep roots in Pune, noting that he had been living in the city for the past 15 years, while Chetan's father had been settled there for over three decades.
"They run a dry fruits business, and I would help them whenever required," he said.
According to the Pune Police investigation, businessman Ketan Agarwal was allegedly murdered after being pushed off a cliff at Lohagad Fort by his fiancée, Siya Goyal, and her alleged partner, Chetan Chaudhary.
Investigators have claimed that the two accused searched the internet for methods to kill Agarwal before allegedly executing the plan.
Police further alleged that Siya and Chetan had visited Lohagad Fort before the incident to survey the location and rehearse the crime. They are also suspected of preparing and practising responses they intended to give investigators if questioned after the murder.
Meanwhile, Siya Goyal has drawn criticism after a video surfaced showing her making an obscene gesture at members of the media while being escorted by police during the investigation.
In the footage, which has gone viral on social media, Siya—wearing a black T-shirt with a scarf covering her face—is seen briefly looking towards reporters gathered outside her residence in Pune's Market Yard area before raising her middle finger at the cameras.
The incident triggered widespread criticism online, with many social media users condemning her conduct as insensitive and inappropriate in view of the serious allegations she is facing.
The investigation into the murder remains ongoing, and police are continuing to gather evidence related to the case.