Why 50-year-old Delhi doctor killed domestic worker; police probe mental health angle too
The dermatologist allegedly attacked her with a bat and knife after years of disagreements over her employment; he had reportedly claimed she brought ‘bad energy’ into the household
A 50-year-old dermatologist has been arrested for allegedly murdering his domestic worker on the terrace of his apartment in south Delhi's upscale Mount Kailash locality on Thursday (June 18). Police said the accused, Dr Manish Gupta, first struck the woman with a bat and then stabbed her with a sharp-edged weapon, causing fatal injuries.
The victim, identified as 45-year-old Meena Haldar, had been working for the Gupta family for nearly 10 to 12 years. According to doctors at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), she died from severe injuries to her neck.
Dispute over employment cited as motive
Investigators said Gupta confessed to the crime during questioning and attributed his actions to long-standing disagreements with his family over Haldar's continued employment. Police sources said the doctor claimed the domestic worker brought “bad energy” into the household and negatively affected his teenage son's studies.
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According to investigators, Gupta felt ignored and undervalued within his family after repeatedly insisting that Haldar be dismissed. His wife reportedly acknowledged discussions on the matter but told police there had been no serious arguments or conflicts over the issue.
Attack took place after wife left for work
Police said Gupta's wife, also a doctor, left for work around 10.15 am, while Gupta and their son remained at home. Haldar arrived shortly afterwards, completed the household chores, and went to the terrace to dry the clothes.
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Investigators believe Gupta followed her to the terrace between 11.15 am and 11.30 am, struck her on the head with a bat, and then stabbed her. He later left the blood-stained weapons near a staircase, where they were recovered by the police.
Mental health history under investigation
Police are also examining claims made by Gupta's wife and son that he had been undergoing treatment for mental health issues and had been taking antidepressants for nearly a decade. Investigators are verifying medical records and consulting his doctors to determine whether any recent behavioural changes may have contributed to the crime.
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Meanwhile, Haldar's family, shocked by the incident, has demanded a fair and impartial investigation, saying they cannot comprehend why she was targeted after years of loyal service to the family.