Arun Palkar, the only survivor
A Family suicide pact that came to light yesterday afternoon at Samarth Vandan society in Dhayri left three people dead. A 40-year-old electrical contractor was the only survivor.
The contractor, Arun Palkar, blamed the unfavourable positions of Shani (Saturn) and Mangal (Mars) for taking the extreme step.
Arun's condition was reportedly serious, while his two sons, Omkar (11) and Omprakash (6), and wife Anita (37) were declared dead when they were brought to Sassoon hospital. The police suspect the four members of the family consumed sleeping pills.
Palkar left seven suicide notes in all -- addressed to the police, the society members, the flat owner, two brothers, sisters and doctors at Sassoon hospital -- saying no one should be held responsible for the family's act.
The Haveli police said Arun, his wife and two sons were found in an unconscious state in the family's rented flat on the first floor of the society. The police said Arun's condition was stated to be critical and he was undergoing treatment at a private hospital.
Arun's younger brother Umesh Palkar, who used to work with Arun, said his sibling never told him about any tensions in his life. Police Inspector (Crime) Sardar Patil from the Haveli police station said: "The matter came to light after Umesh had gone to check as his brother did not answer his calls even after repeated attempts.
Initial investigations reveal that Arun was not reeling under financial debt but was depressed. The statements of his relatives point out that he believed in astrological predictions." Arun's brother-in-law said his sister Anita was a loner and never shared her tensions with anyone.