A 30-year-old woman, Nikki, was allegedly set ablaze by her husband and in-laws in Greater Noida’s Sirsa village after repeated demands for dowry. Disturbing video footage shows her walking down a staircase while engulfed in flames.
Police said Nikki was married into the family in 2016 and had been facing harassment for dowry soon after her wedding. The accused allegedly demanded ₹36 lakh from her family. Her husband, Vipin, has been arrested, while her father-in-law, mother-in-law, and brother-in-law are absconding.
According to investigators, the incident occurred on Thursday night. Video clips circulating online show Nikki’s husband and another woman assaulting her. In one clip, she is seen being dragged by her hair. In another, she is visibly on fire, hobbling down the stairs, before collapsing on the floor as bystanders try to douse the flames.
Police confirmed that Nikki succumbed to burn injuries at a local hospital.
Sister’s Allegations
Nikki’s elder sister, Kanchan, who is also married into the same family, alleged that both were subjected to sustained torture over dowry demands. “They asked us to bring ₹36 lakh. I was also beaten between 1.30 am and 4 am on Thursday. They told me I was better off dead,” Kanchan said.
She further alleged that her sister was doused with liquid and set on fire in front of her and the children. “I tried to save her but couldn’t. I want justice. I want my in-laws to suffer the way they made my sister suffer,” she told reporters.
Child Witness
Nikki’s minor son also recalled the incident. “They poured something on mumma, slapped her, and then set her ablaze using a lighter,” he said in his statement.
Police Action
Police have arrested Nikki’s husband Vipin and launched a manhunt for the remaining accused family members. A case has been registered under sections of IPC 302 (murder) and Dowry Prohibition Act.
“We are verifying all video evidence and witness accounts. The husband is in custody. Raids are being conducted to apprehend other family members,” said a senior police officer.
Despite strict anti-dowry laws in India, dowry-related violence remains a widespread social issue. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), over 6,500 dowry deaths are reported annually, with Uttar Pradesh consistently among the states with the highest cases.
Police said efforts are underway to trace and arrest the absconding in-laws. The case is expected to be fast-tracked, given its severity and the availability of video evidence.
Women’s rights groups in Delhi-NCR have demanded strict action and a time-bound trial.
“This horrifying case once again shows the urgent need to strengthen awareness and enforcement against dowry-related crimes,” a local activist said.