Indore (Madhya Pradesh): A 23-year-old woman succumbed to her burn injuries after being set afire by her husband during a domestic dispute in Chandan Nagar area. The horrific incident took place on Sunday night in front of their 3-year-old son.
The woman, identified as Payal, suffered 80% burns and succumbed during treatment at MY Hospital late on Monday night. Police have arrested accused husband Vinod Jharel, who allegedly poured kerosene on Payal and set her ablaze over a trivial argument regarding her refusal to cook vegetables.
According to police, Payal and Vinod lived in Sagar Palace, Sirpur area. Following the incident, Payal was rushed to the hospital in critical condition but she could not be saved.
Shockingly, the incident occurred in front of their 3-year-old son, who later told his maternal relatives, ‘Papa lit the matchstick.’ Initially, police registered a case of attempt to murder against Vinod, but after Payal's death, charges of murder will be added.
Dowry demands, financial pressure led to attack
Payal’s brother Arjun alleged that Vinod and his family had been harassing her for dowry. He claimed that they were demanding ₹ 50k for a family member’s surgery and repeatedly sent Payal to her maternal home asking for money. When she returned empty-handed, she was being assaulted.
Family demands action against in-laws
Payal’s family has also accused Vinod’s parents and his younger brother of being involved in the crime. They allege that the attack was carried out by Vinod with the support of his family.
On Monday, her family members staged a protest at Chandan Nagar police station, demanding that all those responsible in the incident be arrested. However, police said that Payal had only named her husband in her dying declaration. ‘We have taken her statement and as of now Vinod has been arrested. The role of others will be investigated further,’ ACP Shivendu Joshi said.
