Ketan Agarwal murder case: Pune Police build independent evidence as probe moves beyond confessions

The investigation into the alleged murder of Pune businessman’s son Ketan Agarwal has entered a crucial phase, with police saying they are independently verifying every piece of evidence instead of relying solely on statements made by the accused.

Officials said the focus is on building a legally sustainable case by corroborating forensic findings, CCTV footage and circumstantial evidence. The investigation, which began as an accidental death inquiry, is now being pursued as a suspected premeditated murder.

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Also Read: Ketan Agarwal murder case: ‘Throw her from the same fort if she’s guilty,’ says accused Siya Goyal’s mother

Police say confessions alone cannot secure conviction

Superintendent of Police (Pune Rural) Sandeep Gill said any confession made before police officers is not admissible in court, making independent evidence essential to the prosecution.

“A confession made before the police is not admissible in court. Therefore, we have to independently establish our evidence. We must corroborate the evidence and present it in a logical and legally sustainable manner. Our team is currently working on that. Whatever information we are receiving from the accused, relatives, and also circumstantial evidence, based on what we are proceeding forward…” Gill said.

According to investigators, Agarwal’s fiancée, Siya Goyal, and her alleged partner, Chetan Babulal Chaudhary, are suspected of conspiring to kill him during a visit to Lohagad Fort. Police suspect the alleged plan was to pass off the death as an accidental fall.

Investigators examine CCTV footage and witness account

Police are also examining CCTV footage accessed by NDTV, which reportedly shows Goyal meeting Chaudhary at a Pune cafe on June 18. Investigators suspect the alleged conspiracy was discussed during that meeting.

Ketan Agarwal, the son of a prominent businessman from Pune, got engaged to Siya Goyal in February. Their wedding was scheduled for November, and both families had reportedly begun preparations.

After the incident at Lohagad Fort, security guard Dheeraj Jadhav said he rushed towards the spot after hearing cries for help. According to his statement, Goyal told him that “someone fell off the fort” while repeatedly shouting, “Help, help.” He then alerted the police.

Police have confirmed that both Siya Goyal and Chetan Chaudhary remain in custody. Investigators said forensic examination, CCTV footage and other circumstantial evidence are being analysed to reconstruct the sequence of events and establish the motive behind the alleged murder.