In a deeply distressing incident in Panvel, Maharashtra, 30-year-old Sonam Abhishek Keni and her five-year-old daughter were found dead in their residence on April 24, 2025. Initially believed to be a case of suicide and accidental death, the tragedy has since taken a more troubling turn.
Following a formal complaint lodged by Sonam’s father on May 1, the Taloja police have registered a case of abetment to suicide against Sonam’s husband, Abhishek Keni, her mother-in-law, Prabhavati Keni, and four sisters-in-law. The complaint alleges that Sonam endured relentless mental harassment from her in-laws, primarily due to her failure to give birth to a male child and ongoing demands for money from her maternal family.
Authorities are now investigating the possibility of foul play. A suicide note reportedly found at the scene, along with medical reports, is under review to determine the precise cause of death for both Sonam and her daughter.
At present, the primary accused—Abhishek and Prabhavati Keni—remain absconding. In response, the Taloja police have formed three special teams tasked with tracking them down. Meanwhile, the four sisters-in-law named in the case are being questioned as part of the ongoing investigation.
The case has triggered public outrage and renewed attention to the persistent issues of domestic abuse and dowry-related pressure faced by women across India.
