Merchant Navy officer Saurabh Rajput murder: Muskan Rastogi and her lover Sahil Shukla, accused of the brutal murder of Saurabh Rajput, are reportedly having a difficult time adjusting to life in jail. Lodged in Chaudhary Charan Singh District Jail since last Wednesday, the duo has been experiencing severe drug withdrawal symptoms, according to prison officials.
Muskan and Sahil drug withdrawal symptoms
Jail sources reveal that both Muskan and Sahil are showing signs of extreme distress. “They are unable to sleep properly and are refusing to eat or drink,” a source disclosed. While some speculate that their condition could be due to remorse over their crime, jail authorities attribute their distress to prolonged drug use.
Senior Jail Superintendent Viresh Raj Sharma confirmed that both accused had a history of drug consumption. “They have been using drugs for a long time, which is causing restlessness and sleeplessness,” Sharma stated. Doctors have prescribed medication to manage their symptoms, and a dedicated team is closely monitoring their condition. Interestingly, the duo has not received any visitors since their incarceration.
The case dates back to March 4, when Saurabh Rajput was allegedly drugged and stabbed to death by Muskan and Sahil. The accused then dismembered his body and sealed it inside a drum with cement. They misled Rajput’s family by sending messages from his phone while vacationing in Himachal Pradesh. However, on March 18, the matter was reported to the police, leading to their subsequent arrest.
Muskan requests government lawyer, duo denied same barrack in jail
Muskan Rastogi and her lover Sahil Shukla, accused of murdering Saurabh Rajput, have reportedly requested to be lodged in the same barrack at Chaudhary Charan Singh District Jail. However, jail officials denied their plea, citing prison regulations.
In addition to this, Muskan has sought a government-appointed lawyer, as her family has distanced themselves due to the gravity of her alleged crime. Senior Jail Superintendent Viresh Raj Sharma confirmed that Muskan approached him on Saturday with the request. “She expressed that her family is angry with her and will not fight her case. Hence, she demanded a government lawyer,” Sharma said.
As per prison protocol, officials accepted Muskan’s application and forwarded it to the court to ensure legal representation. However, Sahil Shukla has not yet requested a government lawyer.
Regarding prison work, Sharma mentioned that no tasks are assigned to inmates during their initial 10 days in custody. “After this period, we will decide if they are willing to work,” he added.
Since beginning medication for drug withdrawal symptoms, the duo’s condition has improved. “They are gradually getting back to normal and have started focusing on their case,” the jail official said. Despite the initial distress, the accused are slowly adjusting to prison life.
Saurabh Rajput family’s response
Saurabh Rajput, who worked in the merchant navy, married Muskan in 2016 despite family opposition. The couple had a six-year-old daughter. Rajput’s mother has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for a thorough investigation and demanded the death penalty for the culprits.
“I want justice. I appeal to PM Modi and CM Yogi for a detailed investigation, whether through the Crime Branch or CBI. I want to know why my son was murdered,” Rajput’s mother said. She also expressed concerns for her granddaughter’s safety and urged for custody of the child.
Interestingly, Muskan’s father, Pramod, played a crucial role in unveiling the crime. While taking his daughter to the police station, he urged her to confess the truth. Muskan admitted to killing Rajput with Sahil’s help, revealing the gruesome details.
Even Muskan’s parents have demanded the death penalty for their daughter. “What she did was very wrong. My son-in-law deserves justice. The verdict should be swift, and nothing less than capital punishment is acceptable,” Pramod stated.
Meerut City SP Ayush Vikram Singh registered an FIR on March 28. As the investigation continues, the families on both sides are united in their demand for capital punishment, hoping for swift and fair justice.
(With inputs from agencies)
