Muskan and Sahil Meerut Murder Case: The shocking details of the recent murder case in Meerut, which involved a complicated web of relationships and premeditated actions, have attracted a lot of attention. On March 4, 2025, Saurabh Rajput, a 29-year-old former Merchant Navy officer, was allegedly killed by his wife Muskan Rastogi and her lover Sahil Shukla.
After getting married in 2016, Saurabh and Muskan had a daughter who is six years old. Prior to Class 8, Muskan and Sahil were classmates. In 2019, they reconnected via a school WhatsApp group. Particularly during Saurabh’s overseas assignments, their rekindled friendship developed into a romantic partnership. Sahil and Muskan allegedly plotted to kill Saurabh because they saw him as a barrier to their relationship.
Meerut Murder Case
The Offence
Saurabh came back from London on February 24, 2025, to give Muskan a surprise birthday present. He was unaware that since November 2024, Muskan and Sahil had been planning his murder. They allegedly injected sedatives into Saurabh’s food to make him unconscious, and then they fatally stabbed him. To hide the crime, the couple then cut his body into about 15 pieces, put the pieces inside a big plastic drum, and sealed it with cement.
Meerut Murder Case
Post-Murder Communication and Deceit
Muskan Rastogi tried to deceive Saurabh’s family by pretending to be him and sending text messages from his phone following the March 4, 2025 murder. She pretended that Saurabh was still alive by wishing his sister a happy Holi and talking about the festival’s plans. However, suspicions were raised when his sister’s calls were not returned, which helped to solve the crime.
Meerut Murder Case
Examining and Arresting
A police investigation and a missing person’s report were prompted by Saurabh’s abrupt disappearance, which alarmed his family. The cement-filled drum containing Saurabh’s remains was discovered during a search after authorities noticed a bad smell coming from the couple’s home. Muskan and Sahil were arrested due to inconsistencies in their statements.
Meerut Murder Case
Finding the Crime
On March 18, 2025, Saurabh’s cousin Bablu filed a missing person’s report after his abrupt disappearance. Inconsistencies in Muskan’s statements were discovered by police investigations. Saurabh’s dismembered body was found sealed in a cement-filled drum after a search of their home turned up a foul stench. Muskan and her lover, Sahil Shukla, admitted to the murder after being presented with the evidence.
Meerut Murder Case
Motive and Manipulation
Investigations into Manipulation and Motives showed that Muskan took advantage of Sahil’s sorrow over his mother’s passing to manipulate him. In order to trick Sahil into believing that his mother supported their relationship and wanted Saurabh removed, she set up phoney Snapchat accounts to send messages purporting to be Sahil’s mother. Sahil’s motivation to commit the crime was greatly influenced by this psychological manipulation.
Meerut Murder Case
The aftermath
Muskan and Sahil tried to keep things normal after the murder. Days after the crime, they even took a vacation to Himachal Pradesh, where they were spotted celebrating Holi. They intended to discard the drum holding Saurabh’s remains when they got back, but the weight of it made it impossible to move. The crime was eventually discovered as a result of their incapacity to dispose of the body.
Meerut Murder Case
Family Responses
Muskan’s parents, who expressed shock and declined to offer any legal support, publicly disowned her. “We will never meet her, and we will never fight for her,” they declared. This isn’t your typical case. This is a serious offence.
The nation has been rocked by this case, which has brought attention to issues of manipulation, treachery, and the extent people will go to in order to pursue relationships that are prohibited.
Meerut Murder Case
Court Cases and Public Response
Both defendants appeared in court on March 19, 2025, and were remanded to 14 days of judicial custody. A group of attorneys demonstrated public outrage over the horrible crime by attacking Muskan and Sahil outside the courtroom. During the altercation, police stepped in to protect the accused.
Criminal Psychology: Criminal behavior has long been a subject of fascination and concern for society. Why do some individuals break the law while others abide by it? What psychological factors contribute to criminal tendencies? Over the years, various psychological theories have been developed to explain the motives, drives, and conditions that lead to criminal activity. These theories provide a lens through which we can understand the complex interplay of personality traits, environmental influences, cognitive processes, and social dynamics that shape criminal behavior.
One of the earliest theories of criminal behavior stems from the biological perspective, which suggests that genetics and physiological factors significantly influence criminal tendencies. Although biological theories are not purely psychological, they provide a foundation for understanding the predisposition toward certain behaviors.
The idea of a “born criminal” was first introduced by Cesare Lombroso in the late 19th century. Lombroso believed that criminals exhibited distinct physical features, such as a sloping forehead, asymmetry of the face, or large ears, which he termed “atavistic” traits. While this theory has been debunked, modern research into genetics and neuroscience continues to explore the biological roots of criminal behavior.
Studies have shown that genetic predispositions, such as a mutation in the MAOA gene (commonly referred to as the “warrior gene”), may correlate with aggressive and antisocial behavior. However, the expression of such genes often depends on environmental factors, underscoring the importance of the interaction between nature and nurture in shaping behavior.
Criminal Psychology
Psychoanalytic Theory: Freud’s Perspective
Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory offers a psychological framework for understanding criminal behavior. According to Freud, human behavior is driven by the unconscious mind, which comprises three components: the id, ego, and superego. The id represents primal desires and impulses, the ego mediates between the id and reality, and the superego embodies moral standards and societal norms.
Freud suggested that criminal behavior could result from an imbalance among these components. For instance, an overactive id might lead to impulsive and aggressive acts, while an underdeveloped superego could result in a lack of moral restraint. Additionally, unresolved childhood conflicts, such as neglect or abuse, may contribute to the development of deviant behavior.
From this perspective, criminality is often seen as a symptom of deeper psychological disturbances. For example, Freud’s concept of “repressed guilt” suggests that some individuals commit crimes as an unconscious way to punish themselves or gain attention.
Criminal Psychology
Behavioral theories focus on the role of learning and conditioning in shaping behavior. According to B.F. Skinner, criminal behavior is learned through reinforcement and punishment. If an individual’s criminal actions are rewarded—whether through material gain, social approval, or emotional satisfaction—they are more likely to repeat those actions.
Social learning theory, developed by Albert Bandura, expands on this idea by emphasizing the role of observation and imitation. Bandura’s famous “Bobo doll experiment” demonstrated that children who observed aggressive behavior were more likely to imitate it. In the context of criminality, individuals exposed to criminal role models—such as family members, peers, or media representations—may internalize and replicate such behaviors.
For instance, a child growing up in an environment where theft or violence is normalized may come to view these actions as acceptable or even necessary for survival. Social learning theory highlights the importance of environmental and social influences, making it a valuable tool for understanding group-based or gang-related criminal activity.
Criminal Psychology
Cognitive Theories: The Role of Thought Processes
Cognitive theories of criminal behavior examine how individuals perceive, interpret, and respond to their environment. Aaron Beck’s cognitive theory, originally developed to understand depression, has been applied to criminal behavior through concepts like “cognitive distortions.” These are irrational or biased ways of thinking that justify or perpetuate criminal acts.
For example, a criminal may rationalize theft by believing that “everyone steals” or that “the victim can afford it.” Such distortions allow individuals to avoid feelings of guilt or responsibility for their actions. Additionally, deficits in moral reasoning, as outlined by Lawrence Kohlberg’s stages of moral development, may contribute to criminal behavior. Those who fail to progress beyond the pre-conventional stage—where actions are judged solely based on rewards and punishments—may engage in criminal activities without considering their ethical implications.
Criminal Psychology
Personality and Trait-Based Theories
Certain personality traits have been consistently linked to criminal behavior. Hans Eysenck’s theory of personality identifies three dimensions: extraversion, neuroticism, and psychoticism. Eysenck proposed that individuals high in psychoticism are more prone to criminal behavior due to traits like aggressiveness, impulsivity, and a lack of empathy.
Similarly, the “Big Five” personality traits—openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism—offer a framework for understanding individual differences in behavior. Low agreeableness and low conscientiousness, for instance, have been associated with higher rates of criminal activity.
Another influential concept is the “dark triad” of personality traits: narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. Psychopathy, in particular, is strongly correlated with criminal behavior due to characteristics such as superficial charm, lack of remorse, and a propensity for manipulation and deceit.
Criminal Psychology
Strain and Stress Theories
Robert Agnew’s General Strain Theory (GST) posits that individuals engage in criminal behavior when they experience strain or stress. This strain arises from the inability to achieve socially valued goals through legitimate means, leading to frustration and anger. For example, someone facing financial hardship may resort to theft or fraud as a way to cope with their circumstances.
From a psychological perspective, strain can also result from interpersonal conflicts, such as bullying, discrimination, or abuse. The accumulation of stressors, coupled with inadequate coping mechanisms, increases the likelihood of criminal behavior.
Criminal Psychology
Developmental and Life-Course Theories
Developmental theories focus on how criminal behavior evolves over time, considering factors such as childhood experiences, family dynamics, and social influences. Terrie Moffitt’s dual taxonomy theory distinguishes between “adolescence-limited” and “life-course-persistent” offenders. Adolescence-limited offenders engage in criminal behavior temporarily due to peer pressure or developmental changes, while life-course-persistent offenders exhibit antisocial behavior consistently throughout their lives.
Early exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as neglect, abuse, or parental incarceration, has been linked to an increased risk of criminal behavior. These experiences can disrupt emotional regulation, social skills, and decision-making processes, setting the stage for lifelong behavioral issues.
Environmental and Sociocultural Influences
While psychological theories focus on individual factors, it is essential to consider the broader social and cultural context. Poverty, lack of education, and community disorganization create environments where criminal behavior is more likely to thrive. Psychological theories often intersect with sociological perspectives, highlighting how systemic inequalities and social structures influence individual behavior.
Criminal Psychology
Implications for Prevention and Intervention
Understanding the psychological theories of criminal behavior has practical implications for prevention and rehabilitation. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, can help individuals recognize and challenge distorted thought patterns, improving decision-making and impulse control. Early intervention programs that address childhood trauma and strengthen family support systems can reduce the likelihood of future criminal behavior.
Additionally, community-based initiatives, such as mentorship programs and educational opportunities, can provide alternative pathways for at-risk individuals. By addressing both psychological and environmental factors, these strategies aim to break the cycle of criminality and promote positive social outcomes.
Criminal Psychology
Conclusion
The psychological theories of criminal behavior offer valuable insights into the complex interplay of biological, cognitive, emotional, and social factors that contribute to crime. While no single theory can fully explain all aspects of criminality, each provides a piece of the puzzle, helping us develop more effective prevention and intervention strategies. By understanding the root causes of criminal behavior, society can work toward creating a safer and more just world.
Criminal behavior has long been a subject of fascination and concern for society. Why do some individuals break the law while others abide by it? What psychological factors contribute to criminal tendencies? Over the years, various psychological theories have been developed to explain the motives, drives, and conditions that lead to criminal activity. These theories provide a lens through which we can understand the complex interplay of personality traits, environmental influences, cognitive processes, and social dynamics that shape criminal behavior.
One of the earliest theories of criminal behavior stems from the biological perspective, which suggests that genetics and physiological factors significantly influence criminal tendencies. Although biological theories are not purely psychological, they provide a foundation for understanding the predisposition toward certain behaviors.
The idea of a “born criminal” was first introduced by Cesare Lombroso in the late 19th century. Lombroso believed that they exhibited distinct physical features, such as a sloping forehead, asymmetry of the face, or large ears, which he termed “atavistic” traits. While this theory has been debunked, modern research into genetics and neuroscience continues to explore the biological roots of criminal behavior.
Studies have shown that genetic predispositions, such as a mutation in the MAOA gene (commonly referred to as the “warrior gene”), may correlate with aggressive and antisocial behavior. However, the expression of such genes often depends on environmental factors, underscoring the importance of the interaction between nature and nurture in shaping behavior.
Psychoanalytic Theory: Freud’s Perspective
Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory offers a psychological framework for understanding turpitude. According to Freud, human behavior is driven by the unconscious mind, which comprises three components: the id, ego, and superego. The id represents primal desires and impulses, the ego mediates between the id and reality, and the superego embodies moral standards and societal norms.
Freud suggested that misconduct could result from an imbalance among these components. For instance, an overactive id might lead to impulsive and aggressive acts, while an underdeveloped superego could result in a lack of moral restraint. Additionally, unresolved childhood conflicts, such as neglect or abuse, may contribute to the development of deviant behavior.
From this perspective, criminality is often seen as a symptom of deeper psychological disturbances. For example, Freud’s concept of “repressed guilt” suggests that some individuals commit crimes as an unconscious way to punish themselves or gain attention.
Behavioral and Social Learning Theories
Behavioral theories focus on the role of learning and conditioning in shaping behavior. According to B.F. Skinner, criminal behavior is learned through reinforcement and punishment. If an individual’s criminal actions are rewarded—whether through material gain, social approval, or emotional satisfaction—they are more likely to repeat those actions.
Social learning theory, developed by Albert Bandura, expands on this idea by emphasizing the role of observation and imitation. Bandura’s famous “Bobo doll experiment” demonstrated that children who observed aggressive behavior were more likely to imitate it. In the context of criminality, individuals exposed to criminal role models—such as family members, peers, or media representations—may internalize and replicate such behaviors.
For instance, a child growing up in an environment where theft or violence is normalized may come to view these actions as acceptable or even necessary for survival. Social learning theory highlights the importance of environmental and social influences, making it a valuable tool for understanding group-based or gang-related perpetrators activitves.
Cognitive Theories: The Role of Thought Processes
Cognitive theories of criminal behavior examine how individuals perceive, interpret, and respond to their environment. Aaron Beck’s cognitive theory, originally developed to understand depression, has been applied to criminal behavior through concepts like “cognitive distortions.” These are irrational or biased ways of thinking that justify or perpetuate criminal acts.
For example, a criminal may rationalize theft by believing that “everyone steals” or that “the victim can afford it.” Such distortions allow individuals to avoid feelings of guilt or responsibility for their actions. Additionally, deficits in moral reasoning, as outlined by Lawrence Kohlberg’s stages of moral development, may contribute to criminal behavior. Those who fail to progress beyond the pre-conventional stage—where actions are judged solely based on rewards and punishments—may engage in miscreants activities without considering their ethical implications.
Personality and Trait-Based Theories
Certain personality traits have been consistently linked to criminal behavior. Hans Eysenck’s theory of personality identifies three dimensions: extraversion, neuroticism, and psychoticism. Eysenck proposed that individuals high in psychoticism are more prone to defendants behavior due to traits like aggressiveness, impulsivity, and a lack of empathy.
Similarly, the “Big Five” personality traits—openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism—offer a framework for understanding individual differences in behavior. Low agreeableness and low conscientiousness, for instance, have been associated with higher rates of criminal activity.
Another influential concept is the “dark triad” of personality traits: narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. Psychopathy, in particular, is strongly correlated with criminal behavior due to characteristics such as superficial charm, lack of remorse, and a propensity for manipulation and deceit.
Strain and Stress Theories
Robert Agnew’s General Strain Theory (GST) posits that individuals engage in criminal behavior when they experience strain or stress. This strain arises from the inability to achieve socially valued goals through legitimate means, leading to frustration and anger. For example, someone facing financial hardship may resort to theft or fraud as a way to cope with their circumstances.
From a psychological perspective, strain can also result from interpersonal conflicts, such as bullying, discrimination, or abuse. The accumulation of stressors, coupled with inadequate coping mechanisms, increases the likelihood of culprits behavior.
Developmental and Life-Course Theories
Developmental theories focus on how suspects behavior evolves over time, considering factors such as childhood experiences, family dynamics, and social influences. Terrie Moffitt’s dual taxonomy theory distinguishes between “adolescence-limited” and “life-course-persistent” offenders. Adolescence-limited offenders engage in criminal behavior temporarily due to peer pressure or developmental changes, while life-course-persistent offenders exhibit antisocial behavior consistently throughout their lives.
Early exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as neglect, abuse, or parental incarceration, has been linked to an increased risk of villan behavior. These experiences can disrupt emotional regulation, social skills, and decision-making processes, setting the stage for lifelong behavioral issues.
Environmental and Sociocultural Influences
While psychological theories focus on individual factors, it is essential to consider the broader social and cultural context. Poverty, lack of education, and community disorganization create environments where criminal behavior is more likely to thrive. Psychological theories often intersect with sociological perspectives, highlighting how systemic inequalities and social structures influence individual behavior.
Implications for Prevention and Intervention
Understanding the psychological theories of criminal behavior has practical implications for prevention and rehabilitation. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, can help individuals recognize and challenge distorted thought patterns, improving decision-making and impulse control. Early intervention programs that address childhood trauma and strengthen family support systems can reduce the likelihood of future criminal behavior.
Additionally, community-based initiatives, such as mentorship programs and educational opportunities, can provide alternative pathways for at-risk individuals. By addressing both psychological and environmental factors, these strategies aim to break the cycle of criminality and promote positive social outcomes.
Conclusion
The psychological theories of criminal behavior offer valuable insights into the complex interplay of biological, cognitive, emotional, and social factors that contribute to crime. While no single theory can fully explain all aspects of criminality, each provides a piece of the puzzle, helping us develop more effective prevention and intervention strategies. By understanding the root causes of criminal behavior, society can work toward creating a safer and more just world.
Noida Cyber Crime: In a swift and effective operation, the Cyber Crime team at Sector 49 police station in Noida managed to return ₹1.15 lakh to a victim of online fraud within just 50 hours of the incident. The operation was led by SHO Anuj Kumar Saini, who has earned a reputation for his quick and decisive actions in tackling cybercrime.
The case came to light when the victim, Atul Gupta, reported the fraud on March 10, 2023, through the cyber portal. His complaint mentioned that a significant amount of money had been deceitfully withdrawn from his account. Acting immediately, SHO Anuj Saini and his team managed to freeze the fraudulent account, preventing further losses.
“Time is crucial in such cases,” said Anuj Kumar Saini. “We knew we had to act fast to recover the victim’s money, and our team’s coordinated efforts paid off.”
The team involved in this successful operation included Inspector Mahesh Singh Rana, Cyber Helpdesk In-charge, Computer Operator Dharmendra Kumar Singh, and Constable Neetu Chaudhary. Their combined efforts ensured that the entire amount was safely returned to the victim’s account by August 12, 2024.
Noida Police Commissioner Laxmi Singh praised the team’s work, highlighting that under her leadership, the Noida Police is making significant strides in combating cybercrime. This case serves as a strong reminder to the public to remain vigilant against online fraud and to report any suspicious activity immediately.
In closing, SHO Anuj Kumar Saini urged citizens not to share sensitive banking information with unknown individuals and to call 1930 if they suspect fraud.
In a murder case similar to that depicted in the movie ‘Drishyam’, a man was killed by his younger brother, and the body buried in the backyard of their home in the Kollam district of Kerala.
The incident happened in 2018. The murder has come to light only now after a relative raised suspicion about the disappearance of the man, identified as Shaji Peter, and informed the police.
During Onam in 2018, Shaji Peter returned to his ancestral home to be with his family during the festive period. He had been away from home for a long time. Shaji allegedly misbehaved with his younger brother Sajin’s wife Arya, which is believed to be the trigger behind the murder.
In the fight that ensued, Sajin beat his brother to death. With the help of his mother and wife, he secretly buried the body in the backyard of their home in Eroor in the Kollam district.
The family did not disclose the matter to anyone. They said that Shaji was working in the Malappuram district to those who asked about him.
They kept this secret for two and a half years. The Kerala police have now uncovered the truth after their investigation. The dead body was found on Wednesday. The top of the body was sheeted and concreted to prevent odour. The police and forensic experts also recovered a sack and bone fragments.
