Meerut, May 31, 2025 — In a significant development in the high-profile Meerut drum murder case, 28-year-old Muskan Rastogi, accused of murdering her husband, former merchant navy officer Saurabh Rajput, has expressed her intent to study law while incarcerated. Rastogi aims to represent herself in court, citing inadequate support from her current legal counsel.

A Gruesome Crime Unveiled

The case came to light on March 19, when Rajput’s dismembered body was discovered sealed in a cement-filled blue drum at their residence in Meerut’s Brahmpuri locality. Investigations revealed that Rajput was allegedly drugged and murdered by Rastogi and her lover, Sahil Shukla, on the night of March 4. The couple then attempted to conceal the crime by dismembering the body and hiding it in the drum. The Times 

Following their arrest, both accused were remanded to judicial custody after their bail pleas were rejected. The case has garnered significant attention due to its gruesome nature and the alleged involvement of occult practices. The Times of India

Muskan Rastogi’s Desire to Study Law: A New Chapter

In an unexpected turn, Muskan Rastogi has now shown interest in pursuing a law degree. She informed the jail authorities about her wish to study law so that she could represent herself in court, claiming that her current legal representation had been unsatisfactory.

However, there’s a hurdle to her academic aspirations. Jail officials revealed that Muskan had only studied up to Class 8 and did not possess a senior secondary certificate, which is a prerequisite for enrolling in law programmes in India.

In light of this, authorities are considering enrolling her in educational programmes offered by Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), which runs literacy and academic programmes for prison inmates. If she successfully completes the necessary basic qualifications, she could eventually pursue a law degree.

Pursuit of Legal Education Behind Bars

Currently held at Chaudhary Charan Singh District Jail in Meerut, Rastogi has approached jail authorities to facilitate her legal studies. She claims that her advocate has not provided adequate support, prompting her decision to represent herself.

However, officials noted that she has not studied beyond Class 8 and lacks the senior secondary certificate required to enrol in law programmes in India. The jail administration is exploring educational options through Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), which offers courses to inmates, to help her meet the prerequisites for legal studies.

Public Outrage and Legal Tussles

The incident stirred massive public outrage. Crowds gathered outside the house as details of the murder emerged, and there was widespread condemnation of the accused. The subsequent court hearings witnessed high drama as well.

During one of the court appearances, both Muskan and Sahil were attacked by a group of lawyers. The incident created chaos inside the premises, forcing the police to intervene to ensure the safety of the accused. The attack reflected the intense anger the crime had provoked among the legal fraternity and the local population.

Adding to the emotional upheaval, Muskan Rastogi’s own family turned against her. Her parents publicly disowned her, expressing deep shame and sorrow over their daughter’s involvement in the heinous crime. In a heart-wrenching statement, Muskan’s mother told reporters, “It would have been better if she had never been born.”

Legal Proceedings and Charges

Meerut police have submitted a comprehensive chargesheet exceeding 1,000 pages in court against Muskan Rastogi and Sahil Shukla for the brutal murder of Saurabh Rajput. Authorities have clarified that the killing was not associated with black magic, countering previous speculations. The charge sheet gathers extensive evidence and testimonies to support the case against the accused, marking a significant step in the legal proceedings surrounding this high-profile and shocking crime. The Times of India

Muskan’s Life in Jail and Health Concerns

Since her arrest, Muskan Rastogi has reportedly struggled with withdrawal symptoms and mental stress while in custody. Jail authorities mentioned that Muskan initially isolated herself from other inmates, eating very little and often sitting alone in a corner. She also reportedly demanded medical injections to cope with stress, while Sahil Shukla experienced severe restlessness due to the absence of marijuana, to which he was allegedly addicted.

In a routine medical checkup conducted inside the jail, another shocking discovery was made — Muskan Rastogi was found to be pregnant. The news added yet another emotional and legal layer to the already complex case.

Rajput’s grieving family expressed their willingness to take responsibility for the unborn child. Saurabh Rajput’s brother made a public statement offering to adopt and raise the child, saying it would be a way to preserve a part of his brother’s legacy.

Conclusion

As the legal proceedings continue, Rastogi’s request to study law underscores the complexities surrounding the case, highlighting issues of legal representation and the rights of the accused within the justice system. The case continues to captivate public attention, serving as a stark reminder of the depths of human actions and the pursuit of justice.

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