Model’s death: Case filed against lover

Panvel: The city police have registered a case against Jitesh Suresh Kadam in connection with the death of 26-year-old model Kanchan Kashyap, who died at her rented home in Karanjade on January 17, 2026. The case follows a complaint by her mother, who has alleged that continuous physical and mental harassment by Kadam drove her daughter to take the extreme step.

Kanchan, originally from Delhi, had moved to Mumbai around five years ago to pursue modelling and support her family. After her death, her family reportedly examined her mobile phone and found WhatsApp conversations and other material indicating her relationship with Kadam, a Lonavala resident.

The family also allegedly found a marriage certificate dated May 25, 2023, issued by the BMC, suggesting that the two had married.

According to the complaint, Kadam was already married and allegedly refused to give Kanchan the status of a wife. He allegedly demanded money earned through her modelling assignments and assaulted and abused her when she refused.

In December, Kanchan reportedly told her mother about the alleged harassment and said Kadam had left her without support.

Police have registered a case under Sections 108, 82(1), 351(2) and 352 of the BNS.