In a heart-wrenching incident in Greater Noida's Sirsa village, a young boy has recounted the horrific moments when his mother was allegedly tortured and set ablaze by his father and grandparents over dowry. The woman, identified as Nikki, had been married into the family since 2016.
According to the child's tearful testimony, "They first put something on mumma. Then they slapped her before setting her on fire using a lighter". This statement has sent shockwaves through the community, sparking outrage and demands for swift justice.
Nikki's sister, Kanchan, who is also married into the same household, revealed that both sisters had been subjected to relentless dowry harassment. Despite the family having already provided a Scorpio car, a Bullet motorcycle, cash, and other valuables at the time of Nikki's marriage, the in-laws allegedly demanded an additional Rs 36 lakh. Kanchan recounted the abuse she faced, stating, "They told me, 'We have got dowry for one, what about the other? You are better off dead'". She also mentioned that her in-laws wanted Nikki to go away so her husband could remarry.
Videos have emerged showing the extent of the violence inflicted upon Nikki. One disturbing clip shows her being dragged by her hair and beaten by her husband and mother-in-law. Another shows her sitting on the floor with severe burn injuries covering her body.
On the evening of August 21, Nikki was rushed to Fortis Hospital with severe burns and later referred to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi. Tragically, she died en route.
Following a complaint filed by Kanchan, police have registered a case against Nikki's husband, Vipin Bhati, brother-in-law Rohit Bhati, mother-in-law Daya, and father-in-law Satveer. Vipin has been arrested, and efforts are underway to apprehend the other accused.
The Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Greater Noida), Sudhir Kumar, stated that they received information from Fortis Hospital regarding a woman admitted with burn injuries. A post-mortem examination was conducted, and based on Kanchan's complaint, a case was registered.
Nikki's mother revealed that her daughter's in-laws used to demand cash and vehicles as dowry and subjected her to abuse and assault. She recounted instances where they demanded a Swift Dzire car, and despite already giving a Scorpio at the wedding, their demands continued. "Her husband used to abuse my daughter as well as us," she said, demanding a death sentence for the accused.
The incident has ignited public outrage, with locals gathering outside the police station demanding swift justice for Nikki. Protesters held placards and raised slogans seeking strict punishment for those responsible. Kanchan expressed her grief and determination, stating, "I want them to suffer the way they made my sister suffer".