Dubai: Prominent Indian businessman and Chairman of the Confident Group, Dr. CJ Roy, has died in India during an ongoing Income Tax raid, a close family friend confirmed on Friday.

According to the family friend, Dr. Roy was being questioned by officials as part of the raid. “What I know so far is that during the raid, he was questioned relentlessly and intimidated,” the source said. “He later retreated to his office, after which a gunshot was heard. He was rushed to the hospital but could not be saved.” Authorities are yet to issue an official statement detailing the circumstances surrounding his death.

A long-time resident of Dubai and a UAE Golden Visa holder, Dr. CJ Roy is survived by his wife, a daughter, and a son.

Founded in 2006, Confident Group built its reputation on a zero-debt model for project financing. The group expanded into Dubai’s real estate market in 2024 with its first project, Confident Lancaster, followed by the announcement of Confident Preston in 2025. Over the years, the company diversified into several sectors including hospitality, education, entertainment, and building materials.

Dr. Roy, 57, also served as the Honorary Consul of the Slovak Republic, playing a role in promoting trade and cultural relations. He divided his time between India and the UAE and had multiple real estate interests in Dubai. A resident of Emirates Hills, he was well known for hosting community members and business leaders at his home.

An avid automobile enthusiast, Dr. Roy maintained a private collection featuring luxury vehicles such as Bugatti and Rolls-Royce. In November last year, he made headlines after offering around Dh40,000 to buy back the first car he ever owned—a red Maruti 800 purchased in 1994 with his own earnings—which he successfully traced through social media.

He was also known for his philanthropic work. Just last month, Dr. Roy announced a Dh20 million charitable initiative in partnership with the Kerala Muslim Cultural Center (KMCC) Dubai, aimed at providing clean drinking water to remote villages in Kerala.

Dr. CJ Roy’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through business and community circles in both India and the UAE, where he was widely regarded as a charismatic entrepreneur and philanthropist.