FIR registered against Arnab Goswami for abetting suicide
An FIR has been registered by Alibaug police against Republic TV's editor-in-chief Arnab Goswami and two others, for abetting suicide of interior designer Anvay Naik. Naik took his life on Saturday at his Alibaug bungalow. His mother Kumud's body was also discovered nearby, though the reason for her death couldn't be ascertained. In the suicide note, Naik blamed Republic TV for non-payment of dues.
Naik's wife claims Republic TV didn't clear dues
Anvay Naik's, wife Akshata alleged Republic TV and two others didn't clear bills, after which her husband committed suicide. On her complaint, the police have booked Feroz Shaikh of IcastX and Niteish Sarda of Smartworks, along with Goswami. Reportedly, Republic TV owed Rs. 83 lakh to Naik, while IcastX and Smartworks had to pay him Rs. 400 lakh and Rs. 55 lakh respectively.
Police awaiting post-mortem report of Naik's mother for clarity
Naik, a Mumbai resident, came to his Alibaug bungalow with his mother on Friday evening. His body was found hanging by locals. "There is still no clarity on the cause of Kumud's death. We are awaiting post-mortem report," Additional Superintendent of Police (Raigad) Sanjay Patil said.
Republic TV issues statement, credits vested interests behind FIR
In a statement, Republic TV quashed claims of non-payment of dues and said strict action will be taken against false propaganda. "The details of payment, including cheque numbers, amounts, dates of payment, related correspondence and documentation are available with Republic TV. All such details and evidence will be given to appropriate authorities as and when required," read the statement, adding the channel expressed condolences.
