‘She chose to marry someone else’: WhatsApp text, 15-year relationship and more; chilling details in Noida’s Valentine’s Day car murder
Times of India
by TOI CITY DESKFebruary 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The deaths of Sumit and Rekha on Valentine’s Day in Noida have sparked intense speculation and investigation. The couple, who had been together for over 15 years, were found dead with gunshot wounds inside a locked car. While initial reports suggested a possible suicide, family members are adamant that the couple was murdered, citing caste-based hostility and threats as potential motives. A chilling WhatsApp message reportedly sent by Sumit hours before his death detailed their long relationship and Rekha’s decision to marry someone else, leading him to take extreme action.
Sumit’s relatives allege that both families were aware of their relationship for over a decade, with Rekha attending family functions. However, Rekha’s family claims the couple had a strained relationship, with Sumit allegedly harassing her in the past. They also stated that Rekha’s marriage was being arranged elsewhere due to caste differences. The police, while investigating, pointed to the recovered pistol and locked car as evidence supporting a suicide theory.
The case has highlighted deep-rooted caste issues in India, with family members accusing caste-based violence. Despite these claims, the investigation remains inconclusive, with all angles under scrutiny. The deaths have left questions about whether foul play was involved, particularly given the suspicious circumstances of the car’s location and the couple’s long-standing relationship.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/15/2026