Comedian Sunil Pal has made a shocking revelation, alleging that he was kidnapped from the outskirts of Delhi. In an exclusive chat with India Today Digital, he shared that he was lured to the location under the pretext of attending an event. The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of Rs 20 lakh but released him after he managed to arrange approximately Rs 7.5 lakh with the help of friends. The comedian also criticised those who believe his kidnapping was merely a publicity stunt.
Recalling the series of events, Sunil Pal explained that he received a call from a man named Amit, who invited him to perform at a birthday party in Haridwar. The organisers even transferred an advance payment to confirm the deal. After landing in Delhi on December 2, he was en route to the venue when they stopped for snacks. At this point, a man pretending to be a fan pushed him into a car and drove him away.
"They blindfolded me and took me to a two-storey house where several others were present. They started threatening me and demanded Rs 20 lakh. When I told them I wasn’t carrying my ATM card, they began bargaining and explored alternative measures. They took my phone but allowed me to use it to call friends and arrange funds. Once they collected enough, they let me go the next day and even gave me Rs 20,000 for flight tickets back home," Sunil recounted.
He mentioned that, while the kidnappers didn’t physically harm him, the incident left a deep psychological impact. He admitted that he initially didn’t plan to speak publicly about the ordeal, but his wife had already contacted the police, prompting him to share his experience.
"They left me on the roadside, and I travelled to Delhi airport using autos and the metro. I’ve recorded my statement with the police, who are now investigating the matter. The kidnappers deleted all call records from my phone and any evidence that could help trace them. They also took personal information, like details about my children’s school and my mother’s address, which has worried me about my family’s safety. This incident has deeply shaken me and my loved ones, and I hope for improved security measures in our country," he stated.
While Sunil is dealing with mental trauma, some people have accused him of staging the incident for publicity. Responding to such claims, the comedian expressed disappointment at the lack of empathy. He emphasised that his friends have proof of the transactions and that a police report has been filed. "If it were just for fame, we would never have involved the police. I’m simply grateful to be alive, and that’s all that matters," he said.
Sunil also mentioned that the kidnappers allegedly used multiple accounts to withdraw the money, which has hindered the police’s efforts to locate them.