Indore (Madhya Pradesh): In a deeply disturbing incident from the Chandan Nagar area, a 23-year-old woman was allegedly set on fire on Sunday evening by her husband following an argument over not preparing vegetables for dinner. The victim, Payal, sustained 80% burn injuries and is in critical condition at a city hospital.
The accused, her husband Shankar, has been arrested and booked under charges of attempt to murder.
Payal, a mother of two young children—a 3-year-old son and a 4-month-old daughter—had been living with her husband in a colony near Khedapati Hanuman Mandir.
Frequent domestic disputes
Payal, in her preliminary statement to police, said her husband frequently fought with her and on Sunday, they again had a dispute as she did not make vegetables for dinner.
The situation escalated when Shankar allegedly became violent and in a fit of rage, he poured kerosene on her and set her ablaze Police are investigating whether other family members played any role in the crime and have assured further action if anyone else is found guilty..
Allegations of Dowry Harassment
Members of Payal’s maternal family gathered at the Chandan Nagar police station after the incident, demanding justice. They alleged that Shankar had been harassing Payal over dowry and had repeatedly asked for money. When their demands weren’t met, he resorted to the horrific act.
Her family is also pressing for action against other in-laws, whom they suspect of being complicit or encouraging the abuse. The police have assured a thorough investigation and stated that if others are found involved, further action will be taken.
Investigation underway
The police said that Payal's condition remains critical, and her detailed statement will be recorded once she stabilises. In the meantime, evidence is being collected, and statements from neighbours and relatives are being reviewed.
