What initially appeared to be a tragic accident at Maharashtra’s historic Lohagad Fort soon turned into one of the most shocking murder investigations in recent years. The death of 26-year-old realtor Ketan Agarwal has left the public stunned after police alleged that the incident was not an accidental fall but a carefully planned murder involving his fiancée, Siya Goyal, and her alleged lover, Chetan Chaudhary.
The incident took place on June 18, when Ketan and Siya visited the popular tourist destination near Pune. According to investigators, the couple had travelled to Lohagad Fort for what seemed like a normal outing. However, police now believe the trip was part of a pre-planned conspiracy. Officers allege that Chetan Chaudhary secretly followed the couple to the fort and waited for the right opportunity to carry out the attack.
Initially, Ketan’s death raised questions about whether he had accidentally slipped while exploring the fort’s steep cliffs. Lohagad Fort attracts thousands of visitors every year, and the rugged terrain can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. But as investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the incident, several inconsistencies emerged.
Police reportedly reviewed CCTV footage, analysed travel movements, questioned witnesses, and examined digital evidence before concluding that the death was far more than a simple accident. According to investigators, the accused had allegedly planned the crime in advance and even discussed how it would be carried out while avoiding suspicion.
One of the most disturbing aspects of the investigation is the alleged role played by a secret signal. Police claim that Siya Goyal and Chetan Chaudhary had agreed upon a specific cue before the fatal moment. Investigators allege that once Siya sat down at a chosen location, it indicated to Chetan that Ketan was standing in the right position near the cliff edge. At that moment, police say, Chetan approached from behind and allegedly pushed Ketan into the deep gorge below.
Authorities further claim that the signal was chosen not only to coordinate the timing of the attack but also to keep Siya away from the edge so she would not be pulled into danger if Ketan instinctively reached out while falling. These details emerged during the police investigation and the later reconstruction of the crime scene.
The investigation gathered momentum after police detained the suspects and questioned them extensively. Investigators also recreated the sequence of events at Lohagad Fort using a dummy to better understand how the alleged crime unfolded. The reconstruction formed an important part of the evidence collection process as officers attempted to verify statements and establish the timeline.
The case has attracted nationwide attention because of the alleged planning behind the crime and the close relationship between the victim and the accused. Ketan and Siya were engaged and were reportedly preparing for their wedding later this year. The allegations that someone so close to the victim could have been involved have intensified public interest in the investigation.
It is important to note that the investigation is still ongoing. The allegations made by police will ultimately be tested in court, where the accused are entitled to a fair trial. Until judicial proceedings are completed, the claims remain allegations and have not been legally proven.
As investigators continue gathering evidence, the Lohagad Fort murder case has become one of the most closely watched criminal investigations in Maharashtra, raising questions about trust, betrayal, and the meticulous planning that police believe preceded Ketan Agarwal’s death.