7 of Family Die Amid Financial Debt and Despair: Panchkula car suicide
In a tragic and disturbing incident that shocked Haryana, a family of seven, including three children, was found dead in a parked car in Panchkula on May 26, 2025. The suspected mass suicide took place in Sector 20 of Panchkula, a typically quiet residential area. The victims were Praveen Mittal, who was 42, along with his family.
According to preliminary police findings, the family allegedly entered into a suicide pact driven by crippling financial debt and prolonged emotional stress. They have vomited on each other. This Panchkula car suicide has not only stunned locals but also raised serious questions about the growing number of family suicides in India linked to financial distress.
What Happened in Panchkula?
Late Monday night, residents of Sector 20 noticed a car parked unusually long near a residence. What seemed like a harmless vehicle quickly turned into a horror scene when onlookers discovered six people unconscious inside the vehicle. Another man was found seated just outside the car. Moments later, he collapsed and was rushed to the hospital, but did not survive.
The victims include:
- Two middle-aged couples
- Three children, reportedly aged between 7 and 14
All were members of the same extended family, living under one roof and believed to be closely knit. Early forensic findings suggest asphyxiation as the cause of death. No signs of external injury were observed.
The Role of Financial Debt
A handwritten note recovered from the vehicle paints a grim picture. In it, the family mentioned being deeply indebted and expressed feelings of shame, hopelessness, and helplessness. Police sources confirmed that the family had taken loans from multiple informal lenders and were struggling to repay them. At least one adult member had lost employment during the pandemic and never recovered financially.
The note reportedly included the line:
“We are sorry. We tried everything. This is our only option left.”
While the handwriting is being verified, investigators believe the letter confirms that the suicides were premeditated and collective.
Why a Car Was Chosen for Suicide
One of the most chilling aspects of this incident is the choice of location—the family chose to end their lives inside a parked car.
Psychologists suggest this reflects a desire for privacy and unity. Cars offer a confined, controlled space where the family could die together, away from the scrutiny of the outside world. This choice often indicates a planned event and a strong emotional bond among the victims, especially in family suicide pacts.
The man who was found sitting outside the vehicle may have exited at the last minute, possibly due to last-moment fear or to keep watch. Witnesses said his final words were: “I will die in five minutes.” He collapsed shortly after and was declared dead on arrival at the hospital.
A National Issue: Suicide by Debt in India
The Panchkula family suicide is not an isolated case. India has been witnessing a growing pattern of suicides caused by financial pressures:
- According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), over 10,000 individuals died by suicide in 2023 due to financial problems.
- Farmers, small business owners, and unemployed youth are particularly vulnerable.
- The mental health crisis in India remains underreported and largely untreated.
Despite government efforts like the PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme and loan moratoriums, many vulnerable families fall through the cracks of the system.
The Warning Signs and The Silence
According to neighbors, the family had become increasingly reclusive over the past few months. They rarely interacted with others and had stopped attending community events. Unfortunately, this social withdrawal—a classic symptom of emotional breakdown—went unnoticed.
India’s cultural stigma surrounding failure and financial distress often prevents families from seeking help. Mental health resources are still seen as taboo, especially in middle-class and lower-income families. As a result, problems like depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation go untreated until it’s too late.
What Needs to Change
- Awareness: Families must be encouraged to talk openly about financial and mental health issues.
- Debt Counselling: There should be accessible debt-relief and financial counselling programs in every district.
- Mental Health Support: Free therapy and suicide prevention helplines need better funding and awareness.
- Community Vigilance: Schools, neighbors, and local bodies must be trained to identify warning signs.
Conclusion
The Panchkula car suicide is a grim reminder of how easily despair can turn deadly when a family feels cornered by debt and shame. Seven lives, including those of young children, were lost not just because of unpaid loans, but because there was nowhere to turn for help.
As a society, we must create safety nets—not just financial, but emotional. No one should ever believe that a parked car is their only escape from pain.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please contact a suicide prevention helpline immediately. In India, call iCall at 9152987821 or AASRA at 91-22-27546669.
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