Questions Over Income and Fear of Defamation Led to Daughter’s Death: Father Kills National-Level Tennis Player

National News: In a shocking case of familial violence, a 25-year-old former national tennis player, Radhika Yadav, was allegedly shot dead by her own father, Deepak Yadav, at their residence in Gurugram’s Sector 57 on Thursday morning. The incident has sent shockwaves across the sporting and local community, highlighting the grim impact of social stigma and mental distress within families.

According to the FIR lodged by Radhika’s uncle, Kuldeep Yadav, the accused, Deepak, was allegedly distressed over remarks made by villagers suggesting he lived off his daughter’s earnings. He had also reportedly expressed discomfort with the attention she received and had raised questions about her character—claims strongly denied by the family.

Victim Was Preparing Food When Shot

The tragic incident occurred around 10:30 am on the first floor of their house, while Radhika was in the kitchen. Deepak, armed with his licensed .32 bore revolver, reportedly fired three rounds at his daughter, critically injuring her. Hearing gunshots, Kuldeep and his son Piyush, who reside on the ground floor, rushed upstairs to find Radhika lying in a pool of blood.

Despite being rushed to Asia Maringo Hospital, Radhika was declared brought in dead.

Former Tennis Star Turned Coach

Once a promising tennis talent, Radhika had competed at the national level and won several accolades. However, after a shoulder injury ended her professional career, she established a tennis academy to train young aspirants. Her decision to run the academy had reportedly become a point of conflict with her father, who, according to police, had asked her multiple times to shut it down.

Police officials said Deepak confessed that he could not bear the "insult" he felt from neighbors' taunts, accusing him of living off his daughter's income. Succumbing to the perceived shame, he allegedly picked up his revolver and fired at her while she was cooking.

Family Claims No Prior Warning

Radhika’s mother, Manju Yadav, who was at home during the incident but resting in her room due to a fever, told police she heard the gunshots but was unaware of any heated argument. She said Radhika had always upheld the family's honor, and there was no indication of a major dispute between father and daughter.

Uncle Kuldeep, who registered the police complaint, expressed shock and stated that Deepak had never exhibited any such violent tendencies in the past. The murder weapon was recovered from the drawing room, loaded with one live round and five used cartridges.

Case Registered; Forensic Team Called

The Gurugram police have registered a case under Section 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and applicable sections of the Arms Act. A forensic team collected blood samples, swabs, and fingerprints from the scene. Deepak Yadav has been taken into custody and formally charged after admitting to the crime during initial interrogation.

The incident has sparked outrage and calls for deeper awareness about mental health, gender sensitivity, and familial respect for women's independence.