In a shocking case of dowry-related violence, police on Monday arrested the father-in-law and brother-in-law of 26-year-old Nikki Bhati, who was allegedly set on fire by her husband and in-laws in Greater Noida.
The accused—identified as Satveer Bhati (55) and Rohit Bhati (28)—were nabbed near Sirsa Toll Chauraha by Kasna Police after a tip-off and sustained surveillance. According to officials, the 2 were arrested separately within hours of each other.
Entire Family Under Scanner
Nikki’s husband Vipin Bhati, his brother Rohit, and their parents were all named in the FIR registered on August 22. With Monday’s arrests, all four key accused are now in custody. Police said Rohit had been on the run since the crime, which sparked widespread anger across the region.
Investigators revealed that Nikki was brutally assaulted and then set ablaze on August 21 at her marital home in Sirsa village. Graphic videos of the incident, allegedly filmed by Nikki’s elder sister Kanchan—who is also married into the Bhati family—went viral on social media. One clip shows Nikki being dragged by her hair, while another captures her running down a staircase in flames before collapsing.
Despite efforts to save her, Nikki died while being transported to a Delhi hospital.
Husband Injured During Escape Attempt
Vipin Bhati was arrested on August 23 but attempted to flee police custody the following day during an evidence recovery operation. According to officials, Vipin snatched a sub-inspector’s service weapon and fired at police. He was shot in the leg and recaptured. His mother, Daya (55), was also arrested the same day.
Charges Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
The FIR at Kasna Police Station lists charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including Section 103(1) (murder), 115(2) (voluntarily causing hurt), and 61(2) (attempting offences punishable with life imprisonment).
Years Of Dowry Harassment Alleged
Nikki’s family alleges she endured continuous abuse since her 2016 marriage. Her father, Bhikahri Singh, claimed they had already given a Scorpio SUV, motorcycle, and gold ornaments to her in-laws, yet the demands escalated to ₹36 lakh in cash and a luxury car.
Kanchan, the victim’s sister and key eyewitness, said Nikki was beaten in front of her young son and doused with a flammable liquid before being set on fire.
The case has reignited outrage over dowry-related crimes and prompted calls for stricter enforcement of laws protecting women from domestic violence and financial coercion.
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