A court in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, has sentenced Muskan Rastogi and her partner Sahil Shukla to death for the murder of her husband, Saurabh Rajput. District and Sessions Judge Arvind Kumar Mishra announced the verdict on Wednesday, nearly two years after the crime was uncovered. The judge’s remarks included a reference to the Mahabharata, stating that punishment serves as a form of dharma. Both defendants participated in the court proceedings via video link from prison, while Saurabh’s mother, Renu Rajput, and his brother were present in the courtroom.

Details of the Crime

The murder of Saurabh Rajput, a Merchant Navy officer, took place on March 4, 2025. Reports indicate that Muskan and Sahil dismembered his body and concealed the remains in a blue drum filled with cement. Following a thorough investigation, police apprehended the couple and recovered the drum containing the severed body parts. The case gained notoriety in the media, drawing significant public attention due to its gruesome nature.

In a poignant reaction to the sentencing, Saurabh’s mother urged couples facing relationship difficulties to choose separation over violence. She stated, “If you don’t want to live together, separate, but don’t kill someone’s child. For us, our child has not gone anywhere. His memories are in every corner of the house.” She further expressed her belief that individuals committing such heinous acts should face severe consequences.

Prior to the sentencing, Muskan’s parents submitted a written statement indicating their lack of opposition to the death penalty if it was imposed on their daughter. Saurabh’s family had also requested the maximum punishment for both convicts, reinforcing the gravity of the crime.

Emotional State of the Defendants

In the lead-up to the sentencing, both Muskan and Sahil exhibited signs of anxiety. According to senior jail superintendent Viresh Raj Sharma, the couple struggled to sleep on the night before the verdict and had minimal appetite during meals. During the video-conferencing session, the judge inquired about Sahil’s past offences, to which he responded in the negative. When asked if he wished to make a statement regarding the sentencing, he declined.

Jail officials reported that the emotional state of both defendants had been closely monitored since their conviction. They have shown signs of distress, and counselling could be arranged if deemed necessary. The two were informed they would be reconnected to the court for the sentencing announcement.

Muskan’s behaviour has notably changed since her conviction; she has been isolating herself from other female inmates and spending considerable time in prayer. The jail administration has been vigilant in observing her, especially since there are no CCTV cameras in the women’s barracks. She has expressed a desire to meet her young daughter, who remains at home, but no visitors have come to see her since her incarceration.

Future Arrangements in Custody

Following the sentencing, jail superintendent Sharma indicated that the living arrangements for Muskan and Sahil would be adjusted. They will be required to wear the designated prison uniform and may be assigned work in accordance with jail regulations. Depending on availability and requirements, Sahil could be transferred to another facility, while Muskan may be moved to a women’s prison as per applicable guidelines.

Prison regulations stipulate that Muskan and Sahil will not be permitted to meet each other. Muskan has been informed that she can communicate with her daughter or other individuals by writing letters, with the jail administration providing necessary materials. All correspondence will undergo a security check before being sent to the intended recipient.

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