Kolkata, Aug 8 (IANS) Police on Saturday arrested a man in Malda district’s Manikchak after his wife, whom he allegedly set on fire, succumbed to her burn injuries. The incident took place in the Nurpur Panchayat area under Manikchak police station.
According to police, a 20‑year‑old woman died in the burn unit of Malda Medical College and Hospital on Saturday morning. The deceased was identified as Chunni Khatun. She had been admitted to the hospital a few days ago in a critical condition with severe burns.
Her husband was arrested after her death, based on a complaint lodged by her family. They alleged that he had set Chunni on fire.
The accused, Samiul Sheikh, is a resident of Nurpur in Manikchak, while Chunni hailed from Katihar in Bihar. The couple married a year ago in an arranged marriage.
Her family alleged that a few months ago, Chunni discovered her husband was in love with another woman, leading to unrest. They claimed Samiul used to beat her.
A few days ago, Samiul was reportedly talking to his girlfriend on a video call at home. Chunni saw this, and an argument ensued. In anger, she broke his mobile phone.
Allegedly, Samiul tied his wife’s hands and feet to a bamboo pole and set her on fire. Hearing her screams, locals rushed to the spot, but most of her body had already been burnt. She was admitted to Malda Medical College and Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.
The accused, a local businessman, did not respond when asked about the allegations. A written complaint has also been filed against Chunni’s brother‑in‑law Anes Sheikh, sister‑in‑law Chameli Bibi and mother‑in‑law Dilnur Bibi. Police said they are absconding.
Chunni’s relatives said everything was fine after the marriage, but problems began in the last three months after Samiul became involved in an extramarital affair with a local woman.
–IANS
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