Greater Noida, August 25(HS): The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognisance of the tragic dowry murder of Nikki Bhati, demanding urgent and transparent action from the Uttar Pradesh police. NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has formally written to the state's Director General of Police, insisting on a comprehensive action report within three days and immediate arrests of all accused.

The Commission stressed the importance of a fair and prompt investigation with robust security measures for the victim's family and witnesses to safeguard them from intimidation. Nikki’s husband, Vipin Bhati, is currently in judicial custody after being wounded in a police encounter; he denies all allegations, claiming the victim died naturally.

Nikki’s father has accused the husband and in-laws of relentless harassment and cruelty over dowry, demanding capital punishment. The family also staged a protest outside Kasana Police Station, alleging her in-laws' direct involvement in her death by setting her on fire following repeated dowry demands, including a car.

This case has once again spotlighted the urgent need for strict enforcement against dowry-related violence in India and strong protective measures for vulnerable women .

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar