Guwahati–Shillong–Kerala link: Sijo Jacob’s brother alleges Rs 5 lakh silence offer by Vijay Gupta's associates

Guwahati: Two years after the mysterious death of Guwahati-based businessman Sijo Jacob in a Shillong hotel, his family has come forward with fresh and serious allegations, claiming a cover-up, destruction of evidence, and inaction by authorities.

In a video message that has begun circulating, Siljo Jacob, the deceased’s brother, has directly appealed for justice, alleging that BJP leader Vijay Gupta, who is contesting Assam Assembly Elections from the Guwahati Central constituency was named in a suicide note as being responsible for his brother’s death.

Allegations of Suppression and Bribery

According to Siljo Jacob, the family was initially informed that Sijo had died by suicide while in Shillong. He, along with relatives, travelled there but could not bring the body back as it was discovered days after death. The family eventually performed the last rites locally and brought back the ashes to their village church.

However, what followed has raised serious questions.

Siljo Jacob alleged that individuals linked to Vijay Gupta approached the family after the funeral and offered Rs 5 lakh to remain silent and avoid filing a police case. He further claims that crucial evidence, including a suicide note and a voice recording, explicitly mentions Vijay Gupta and accuses him of “cheating” that allegedly led to Sijo Jacob’s death.

Missing Evidence and Police Inaction

The family has also accused authorities of negligence and delay. According to Sijo Jacob's brother, police seized two mobile phones, a laptop, and a tablet as part of the investigation, promising to return them within three months.

“Two years have passed, and we have not received anything back. The case has gone cold. Everyone has forgotten,” Siljo said in the video appeal.

He also alleged that hotel authorities failed to provide CCTV footage, further deepening suspicions around the circumstances of the death.

Background of the Case

Sijo Jacob, 47, was found dead in a hotel room in Shillong’s Police Bazaar area in early 2024. Preliminary findings at the time suggested a possible overdose of sedatives and anti-depressants, with no immediate evidence of foul play.

However, a handwritten suicide note that later surfaced reportedly accused Vijay Gupta of financial misconduct linked to an Aadhaar-related project, alleging that significant investor funds were mismanaged.

Renewed Call for Investigation

The family is now urging authorities to reopen the case and formally register charges based on the suicide note and supporting evidence.

“I am pleading with folded hands—use the suicide note to file a case so that my brother can find peace,” Siljo said.

Comments from BJP candidate Vijay Gupta were not available despite repeated attempts.