Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The tragic death of 26-year-old Nikki in Greater Noida has sparked outrage, with her family alleging nine years of torture and relentless dowry demands. Nikki was reportedly set ablaze by her husband Vipin Bhati and his family after repeated demands for cash and luxury cars went unmet.
Nine Years of Abuse and Rising Demands
Nikki and her elder sister Kanchan, both married into the same family in 2016, endured continuous harassment. Their father, Bhikahri Singh, recounted how the in-laws first demanded a Scorpio car and a motorcycle, later escalating to demands for ₹36 lakh, and eventually a Mercedes or ₹60 lakh in cash. Despite giving gold, vehicles, and even helping Nikki start a beauty parlour, the torture never stopped. Panchayat interventions also failed to resolve the dispute.
Brutal Attack Captured on Video
Kanchan recorded shocking videos showing Nikki being assaulted by Vipin and another woman before being set on fire. Nikki’s six-year-old son, who witnessed the horror, confirmed his mother was doused, slapped, and then set ablaze with a lighter. A video also showed her stumbling down the stairs in flames before collapsing. Nikki succumbed to her injuries on Thursday night while being rushed to hospital.
Police Action and Arrests
Vipin Bhati was arrested on Saturday but tried to escape police custody during evidence recovery and was shot in the leg before being re-captured. His mother, Daya (55), was arrested a day later. Both are named in the FIR lodged under sections of murder and attempt to commit offences punishable with life imprisonment.
Family Demands Justice
Bhikahri Singh demanded bulldozer action against the Bhati family homes, invoking Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s strict stance on crime. “An encounter should be done. Their house should be bulldozed. If not, we will sit on hunger strike,” he said. Nikki’s mother, still in shock, recalled giving everything possible in dowry, yet her daughters faced constant torture.
Ongoing Probe
The police have assured a thorough investigation, with senior officers overseeing the case. The disturbing case has reignited calls for stronger implementation of anti-dowry laws and stricter action against offenders.
