A disturbing incident of domestic violence unfolded in Patna City on Wednesday morning when a man allegedly set his ex-wife, her new in-laws, and a three-year-old child on fire. The attack occurred just 15 days after the woman's second marriage. Five people, including the accused, sustained severe burn injuries and are currently undergoing treatment at Nalanda Medical College Hospital (NMCH). Police have taken the accused into custody and are conducting a thorough investigation.
Details of the Incident
According to police reports, the accused, identified as Kanhai Kumar, a resident of Patna City, arrived at the residence of his ex-wife Munni Devi's new in-laws located in Raja Babu Khatu Shyam Gali around 10:15 am. He was carrying bottles filled with petrol. In a fit of rage, he allegedly poured the flammable liquid on the family members and set them ablaze.
Victims and Injuries
The injured individuals have been identified as Munni Devi, her father-in-law Purushottam Agarwal, mother-in-law Neelam Devi, and a three-year-old child. Kanhai Kumar also suffered burn injuries during the incident. All five victims have been admitted to NMCH, and their condition is reported to be critical.
Background of the Case
Munni Devi's second husband, Govind Agarwal, provided insights into the motive behind the attack. He stated, "Kanhai used to beat Munni, after which she divorced him. Munni married me 15 days ago in April." Govind further alleged that Kanhai had taken Rs 3.47 lakh from them for the divorce and was demanding more money. "Before the incident, he called me and asked where I was. I said I was at the office. Taking advantage, he entered the house and set everyone on fire," Govind added.
Recovery of Evidence
Police recovered a petrol bottle from the lane near the house, which is believed to have been used in the attack. Neighbours reported seeing flames rising from Govind's residence around 10:30 am. A local resident described the scene: "We rushed inside and saw four people badly burnt." Residents immediately alerted the police and helped rescue the victims. Despite the narrow lane hampering rescue efforts, people managed to pull the injured out of the house and shift them to the hospital.
Police Investigation
Patna City SDPO-II Gaurav Kumar provided further details: "Kanhai bought the flammable substance near Kangan Ghat on Wednesday morning out of anger over Munni's second marriage to Govind in April. He reached the house and set it on fire. One child of Govind was also among the burnt. Kanhai has been taken into custody and police are questioning him. Further investigation is underway."
