Mahamandaleshwar Puja Breaks Down After Arrest in Abhishek Gupta Murder Case

Aligarh (The Uttam Hindu): The main accused in the high-profile Abhishek Gupta murder case, TVS showroom owner, Mahamandaleshwar Puja Shakun Pandey aka Annapurna Bharti, with a ₹50,000 bounty on her head, has finally been arrested and sent behind bars. Following her arrest from Bharatpur, Rajasthan on Friday night, she broke down in tears upon entering jail. Officials briefed her on jail rules, after which she was sent to the women’s barracks.

Fleeing Since the Murder

Puja Shakun Pandey had been on the run since the murder of Abhishek Gupta at Khereswar Chowk on September 26. After her arrest, she appeared distressed and restless in jail. Other female inmates supported her, and she took meals on time, though her first night was spent tossing and turning. Both Puja and her already-incarcerated husband, Ashok Kumar Pandey, have been classified as “sensitive category” prisoners by jail authorities.

Police to Strengthen Legal Action

Police are preparing to tighten the legal noose in this case. ASP Mayank Pathak stated that a chargesheet will be filed soon and all accused will face action under the Gangster Act. Additionally, police are identifying individuals who aided Puja during her escape or provided shelter. These people are now on the police radar.

Family Demands Harsher Action

Meanwhile, Abhishek’s brother, Ashish, expressed dissatisfaction with the police action. On Sunday, he met the inspector at Rorawar Police Station and demanded that authorities invoke the National Security Act (NSA) against the accused and seize their property. He alleged that Puja was sent to jail hastily, whereas strict questioning during remand could have revealed the full conspiracy behind the murder.