Delhi Teen’s Life Cut Short by Alleged Boyfriend; Family Grieves Double Loss
Sonia, an 18-year-old aspiring influencer, tragically lost her life, marking a devastating end to her dreams and aspirations. Known for her active social media presence, the Delhi teenager had amassed a following of 7,000 on Instagram, hoping to build a career as a content creator and uplift her family financially. However, her ambition was halted by a turbulent interfaith relationship with her boyfriend, Mohammed Saleem, who allegedly strangled her, according to police.
Sonia’s online profile had playfully referred to Saleem as “Bhoot,” or “ghost,” a term of endearment that would become heartbreakingly symbolic as her relationship faced familial and societal tensions. Hailing from a financially struggling family, she sought to transform their lives through social media. Her family shared that she often visited popular spots like Connaught Place to create videos, aspiring to expand her reach to platforms like YouTube and vlogging.
The relationship came to light for her family in August, around the fifth month of Sonia’s pregnancy, when her mother noticed her frequent illnesses and absence from the house. Despite warnings from both families and threats allegedly made by Saleem’s family, Sonia continued to see him. Her family, though initially upset, planned to support her, even discussing marriage options for the couple.
A close family member, Phool Kumari, expressed regret over their limited knowledge of Sonia’s personal life, wishing they could have intervened more effectively. Another relative, Sunita Devi, remarked that they would have supported Sonia, yet her dreams, along with her unborn child, were ultimately cut short by the tragedy.
As both families process the dual loss, Sonia’s story serves as a somber reminder of the challenges that young couples in interfaith relationships may face. Local authorities are investigating the case, as the family seeks justice for a life full of potential and a future that was never realized.
