Tragedy Strikes Kaushambi Village as Bride-to-be Dies by Suicide
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Jawaharganj village in Kaushambi district was plunged into mourning on Tuesday when a 25-year-old bride-to-be allegedly took her own life, casting a dark shadow over what was meant to be a joyous wedding celebration. The incident has sparked a complex police investigation involving allegations of dowry demands and a secret past relationship.
Initial Probe Reveals Past Relationship and Threats
According to preliminary findings by the authorities, the deceased woman had been involved in a six-year relationship with a local man. This individual reportedly began making persistent calls to both the woman and her fiancé, a constable based in Gonda, urging the groom-to-be to cancel the wedding. The situation escalated when the fiancé discovered the affair and informed the woman's family, who subsequently confronted her about it.
Kaushambi SP Rajesh Kumar provided details to the media, stating, "Upset over the family's reaction, she consumed a poisonous substance late Monday and succumbed to it on Tuesday." The wedding had been scheduled for February 10, with preparations underway since September of the previous year, making the tragedy all the more poignant for the community.
Father Alleges Dowry Demands and Defamation
In a contrasting narrative, the woman's father has come forward with serious accusations against the groom's family. He claims that they demanded additional dowry and, along with an accomplice, engaged in defaming his daughter, which he believes led to her severe mental distress and ultimate decision to end her life. This allegation adds a layer of complexity to the case, highlighting ongoing societal issues related to dowry practices.
In response to these claims, the family of the bride has filed a First Information Report (FIR) at the Sarayakil police station. The complaint has been registered under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Sections 3 and 4 of the Prevention of Dowry Act, targeting the groom and his relatives for allegedly calling off the marriage due to dowry-related pressures.
Police Investigation Uncovers WhatsApp Threats
Further investigation by the police has revealed that approximately a week before the incident, the woman's former lover resurfaced and initiated a series of WhatsApp calls to the constable. Posing as a close relative of the woman, the caller offered to provide evidence of their past relationship but instead began issuing threats. This prompted the constable to report the matter to the Sarayakil police on Monday, disclosing the woman's history with her lover.
SP Rajesh Kumar emphasized, "Action will be initiated once the investigation is completed," indicating that the police are diligently examining all aspects of the case, including the dowry allegations and the role of the former lover. The community remains in shock as authorities work to uncover the full truth behind this devastating loss.
