A 32-year-old woman has allegedly died by consuming a poisonous substance in Greater Noida, prompting police to arrest her husband on charges of abetment to suicide. The incident has brought renewed attention to cases of alleged marital distress and domestic violence in the region.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the deceased, identified as Sonika Bhati, was originally from Bulandshahr. She had reportedly entered into a love marriage with Subhash Sharma approximately 12 years ago. According to police statements, Sonika’s father, Rakesh Singh, lodged a complaint alleging that his daughter had been subjected to continuous physical and mental harassment by her husband and his family.
The complaint detailed that Sonika had contacted her father on May 20, expressing her distress over the alleged harassment. Subsequent to this communication, on Thursday, Subhash Sharma informed Rakesh Singh to come to the Government Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS) hospital in Greater Noida. Upon arrival, Rakesh Singh found that his daughter had passed away, with initial reports indicating she had consumed a poisonous substance.
Police at the Kasna Police Station have initiated further investigations into the matter. This incident occurs in the wake of other recent alleged dowry-related deaths in Greater Noida. Last Sunday, a 24-year-old woman named Deepika Nagar reportedly died in a village in Greater Noida, with her death also being investigated under suspicion of dowry demands. Additionally, in August 2025, a woman identified as Nikki Bhati was allegedly set on fire by her husband and in-laws in Greater Noida following demands for Rs 36 lakh.
These incidents highlight ongoing concerns regarding domestic violence and the persistent issue of dowry harassment in parts of Uttar Pradesh. Legal experts emphasize that Indian law strictly prohibits dowry and any form of harassment or violence related to it. The Indian Penal Code, specifically sections related to cruelty by husband or relatives of the husband and abetment of suicide, are often invoked in such cases.
The police are expected to conduct a thorough investigation, including a post-mortem examination to ascertain the exact cause of death and gather evidence. Statements from family members, friends, and neighbours are likely to be recorded as part of the ongoing probe. The authorities aim to establish the sequence of events leading up to Sonika Bhati’s death and determine the extent of culpability of the accused husband and his family.
The district administration has been urged by local activists to increase awareness campaigns and support systems for women facing domestic abuse and marital distress. The rise in such cases underscores the need for more robust enforcement of existing laws and enhanced support mechanisms for victims. The legal framework in India provides for severe penalties for those found guilty of dowry-related offences and abetment of suicide, aiming to deter such crimes and ensure justice for the victims.
The Chenab Times News Desk