The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognisance of alleged dowry harassment and mental torture leading to the death of a married woman in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. The Commission has formally requested a detailed action taken report from the Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police within seven days.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that a 24-year-old woman, identified as Deepika Nagar, died on Sunday. Her family has alleged that she was murdered by her in-laws due to demands for dowry, rejecting the initial suggestion of suicide or accident.
Allegations of Dowry Harassment and Torture
According to media reports, the woman allegedly died by suicide after continuous demands for dowry and persistent physical and mental harassment from her in-laws. The NCW chairperson, Vijaya Rahatkar, has issued a directive to the Uttar Pradesh police chief, emphasizing the need for immediate, impartial, and time-bound action in the matter.
The Commission has sought comprehensive details regarding the provisions invoked in the First Information Report (FIR), actions taken under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Dowry Prohibition Act, the current status of arrests and the ongoing investigation, any previous complaints filed by the victim, electronic and forensic evidence gathered, post-mortem findings, and the specific roles of all accused individuals involved in the alleged dowry harassment.
Furthermore, the NCW has requested information on the legal aid, security arrangements, counselling services, and compensation being provided to the victim’s family. The commission also seeks details on preventive and remedial measures being implemented to curb dowry harassment and protect married women from such crimes.
Police Action and Post-Mortem Findings
The police have so far arrested Deepika’s husband, identified as Hrithik, aged 26, and her father-in-law, Manoj. Efforts are reportedly underway to apprehend the remaining individuals named in the FIR, which has been registered under provisions related to dowry death.
The post-mortem report of the deceased woman has revealed significant internal injuries, including a brain bleed, rupture of internal organs, and multiple contusions on the body. Viscera samples have been preserved for subsequent forensic analysis to ascertain the exact cause of death and to check for the presence of any toxic substances.
According to the post-mortem report, the victim was found to be bleeding from her left nostril and mouth. The report indicated the presence of a hematoma, which is a collection of blood, on the middle and left sides of her brain. Additionally, the liver, spleen, and right kidney were reported to be ruptured. Contusions were also noted on the victim’s arm and thigh.
The NCW has strongly condemned the incident, stating that no leniency should be shown in cases involving dowry harassment and domestic violence against women. The commission has stressed the importance of ensuring strict action against those found guilty of such offenses.
The Chenab Times News Desk