The initial reports of a love triangle were based on Sharda’s statement to the police that she was jealous of Gupta’s interest in Memwati. But things could be more sinister, with police sources saying there was a money angle to it as well. Closely linked with the "tender mafia", Gupta had apparently received—along with another influential corporator—Rs 5 crore in advance for ensuring that an octroi contract went to a particular party. The total deal was for Rs 15 crore, but was jeopardised by a Supreme Court order banning entry of trucks into Delhi.
The money was allegedly kept with Sharda, Gupta’s friend, whose benami farmhouse on the...

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