A 36-year-old real estate businessman from Lucknow, Shahbaz Shakeel, allegedly ended his life inside his office at Sainik Plaza near Tedhipulia on Wednesday. Just 15 minutes prior, he had allegedly gone live on Facebook, revealing the crushing mental stress he was under due to a debt of nearly ₹15 crore.
In his emotional video, Shahbaz spoke about his alleged depression, failed business ventures, feelings of betrayal by close associates, and his unsuccessful attempts to seek help. Police confirmed he allegedly used a licensed firearm belonging to his security guard to shoot himself.
An FIR has been registered against 10 individuals for alleged abetment and extortion, based on his statements and a complaint filed by his elder brother. Authorities are investigating the case, highlighting the severe financial and psychological pressures that allegedly led to this tragic incident.
A Cry for Help Allegedly Ignored
In a heart-wrenching Facebook Live broadcast, Shahbaz allegedly laid bare the depths of his despair, speaking in a choked voice about the unbearable burdens he carried. “My days are so bad that sometimes I don’t even have money to buy insulin for my diabetic daughter,” he allegedly revealed, appealing directly to celebrities, industrialists, and political leaders for assistance.
He named several people whom he accused of allegedly betraying him and worsening his plight through harassment and intimidation. Despite this public outcry, the response was delayed, and by the time his family and police arrived at the scene, Shahbaz had already allegedly taken the irreversible step. His video has since gone viral, sparking widespread conversations about mental health and financial distress in the business community.
Mounting Pressures and Alleged Tragic End
Shahbaz ran a real estate business from a rented office located just 200 metres from his residence. For over two years, he had allegedly been grappling with mounting financial liabilities, which reportedly escalated to nearly ₹15 crore. According to police reports, on the day of the incident, Shahbaz allegedly asked his security guard to fetch a cold drink and lock the office door from outside.
He then allegedly used the guard’s licensed 12-bore firearm to shoot himself. His wife and three young daughters were devastated by the loss. The police have registered an FIR against 10 individuals under charges including alleged abetment, intimidation, and extortion, following a formal complaint lodged by Shahbaz’s elder brother.
Inspector Prabhatesh Kumar Shrivastav stated, “The investigation is ongoing. We are examining all angles, including the role of the accused and how Shahbaz allegedly accessed the firearm.” The case has also drawn attention to the need for stricter regulations regarding firearm access and mental health interventions.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This heartrending incident underscores the critical importance of accessible mental health services and financial counselling, especially for entrepreneurs and small business owners who often face immense pressures silently. Shahbaz’s story is a stark reminder that behind every statistic of suicide lies a family shattered and a community in mourning.
It calls for a collective effort to destigmatise mental health struggles and create robust support systems that can intervene before despair turns fatal. As a society, we must cultivate empathy, open dialogue, and proactive outreach to those in distress. How can we strengthen these safety nets and ensure timely help reaches those battling financial and emotional crises?
