The tragic death of 26-year-old Nikki Bhati in Greater Noida has sparked outrage and led to the arrest of her husband, Vipin Bhati, along with his mother Daya, father Satyaveer, and brother Rohit. Nikki allegedly died after being set ablaze in her home. The case has taken several disturbing turns, revealing a history of domestic violence, allegations of dowry demands, and now, evidence of Vipin's extramarital affair and past violent behavior.
Affair and Assault Allegations
Investigations have revealed that Vipin Bhati was involved in an affair with another woman. In October of last year, the woman filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Vipin, accusing him of physical assault after Nikki reportedly caught them together. This FIR highlights a prior instance of violence and infidelity, painting a picture of a troubled and potentially abusive individual. Nikki's father believes that the affair was the primary motive for her murder. He alleges that Vipin wanted to get rid of Nikki because she objected to the relationship.
Dowry Demands and Disputes
Nikki's family alleges that Vipin and his family had been demanding additional dowry, including a luxury car and a substantial sum of money. They claim that despite having already given a Scorpio SUV, gold, and cash during the 2016 wedding, the demands continued to escalate. These unmet demands allegedly led to increased tension and ultimately, violence. However, police have stated that while they have found a pattern of domestic violence, they are still investigating the dowry allegations.
Domestic Violence and Harassment
Beyond the dowry claims, there is mounting evidence of domestic violence and harassment. Disturbing videos have surfaced, allegedly taken by Nikki's sister Kanchan, showing Vipin dragging Nikki by her hair and taunting her to "make a video". Another harrowing clip reportedly shows Nikki engulfed in flames, stumbling down a staircase. Nikki's sister, Kanchan, who is married to Vipin's brother Rohit, alleges that Nikki was doused in a flammable liquid and set ablaze. She also claims that the in-laws wanted Nikki out of the house so that Vipin could remarry.
Neighbors have also reported that disputes frequently arose because Vipin objected to Nikki's Instagram makeover reels. They allege that both Nikki and Kanchan, who were active on Instagram, posting makeover reels, faced objections from their husbands, Vipin and Rohit. Additionally, tensions reportedly grew after Nikki and Kanchan opened a beauty parlor at home, a venture that the family allegedly opposed. According to police, Vipin was against Nikki's plan to reopen the parlor, which became a key source of conflict.
Conflicting Accounts and Arrests
Following Nikki's death, conflicting accounts have emerged. Vipin's cousin, Devendra, claimed that Nikki suffered burns from a cylinder blast in the kitchen. However, authorities found flammable liquid and a lighter at the scene, with no evidence of a cylinder explosion. Vipin himself denied the allegations, claiming that Nikki died by suicide. In a video, he stated he had "no regrets" and that "she died on her own".
Vipin was arrested but was shot in the leg during an alleged escape attempt while being taken to the crime scene. Police claim he snatched a pistol from an officer and opened fire. He is currently in custody. Vipin's mother, Daya, father, Satyaveer, and brother, Rohit, have also been arrested.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities exploring all possible angles, including dowry harassment, domestic violence, and potential cover-up attempts by the in-laws. The horrific details of Nikki Bhati's death have ignited public outrage and brought renewed attention to the issue of dowry-related violence and domestic abuse in India.