Pune Builder Dies By Suicide, Names Political Leaders In Video; Allegations Spark Controversy
Pune Builder Dies By Suicide, Names Political Leaders In Video; Allegations Spark Controversy
Pune, July 16, 2026: A Pune-based real estate developer died by suicide in the Gultekdi area, triggering controversy after a video recorded before his death surfaced, in which he allegedly named several political leaders and made serious allegations against his business partners.
The deceased, identified as Khalil Sheikh, a developer residing in Gultekdi, allegedly ended his life by hanging himself. Before taking the extreme step, Sheikh recorded a video stating that mounting financial difficulties and heavy debt forced him to take the decision.
In the video, Sheikh alleged that if his family faced any trouble after his death, Bala Shedge and his son would be responsible. He also made allegations against several individuals connected to a construction project, including political figures.
According to reports, Sheikh was associated with a construction project under the firm Utkarsh Associates, which was formed to develop a property near Laxmi Road in central Pune. The partners reportedly included Ravindra Dhangekar’s wife Pratibha Dhangekar, former MNS corporator Bala Shedge, the son of Sunil Aher, the son of Hamid Sheikh, Raghu Gowda, and Khalil Sheikh.
The project had reportedly received substantial bank funding. However, construction was halted after claims were raised that the land belonged to the Waqf Board. The matter later went to court, resulting in a prolonged delay in the project and increasing financial pressure on Sheikh.
In his video, Sheikh alleged that he was facing severe financial losses due to pending payments from the company. He claimed that around ₹50 lakh — including ₹20 lakh from an approved bill and ₹30 lakh from two other bills — remained unpaid for nearly three years. He further alleged that he had been paying interest on the amount during this period.
Sheikh also accused Bala Shedge of threatening him instead of resolving the financial dispute. He alleged that he was warned of difficulties in continuing business and living in Pune.
Ravindra Dhangekar Responds
Former MLA and Shiv Sena leader Ravindra Dhangekar responded to the allegations, stating that Sheikh’s death was linked to the burden of increasing debt. He said the issue involving the land and the Waqf Board no longer had any legal connection.
Dhangekar claimed that when the project was stopped, he had warned officials that such actions could push businessmen into distress. He said the sudden halt in construction caused major financial losses to everyone involved in the project.
Police have initiated an investigation into the matter, including the allegations made in the video. Further details are awaited.
