Patna Teenager Dies After Alleged Petrol Attack in Disturbing One-Sided Love Case
A tragic incident has shaken the community in Patna district, where a 17-year-old girl has succumbed to severe burn injuries after being allegedly set ablaze by a youth in what appears to be a one-sided love affair. The victim, identified as Muskan, passed away early on Friday morning while undergoing treatment at Nalanda Medical College and Hospital (NMCH) in Patna.
Details of the Harrowing Incident
The disturbing events unfolded on January 17 in Bairiya village, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Gopalpur police station area. According to statements from the victim's father, Dilip Kumar, Muskan was a Class 10 student who had been residing at her maternal grandmother's house in Bairiya village to focus on her studies. Her family had also rented accommodation nearby to support her educational pursuits.
The accused, identified as 22-year-old Aditya Kumar from the same village, had reportedly been attempting to forcibly engage Muskan in conversation against her wishes. On the fateful day, as Muskan was returning home from her grandmother's residence, Aditya confronted her and began pressuring her to talk with him.
The Escalation of Threats and Violence
When Muskan firmly refused to engage with him, the situation took a dangerous turn. Aditya allegedly threatened to make her photographs viral on social media platforms. The confrontation escalated further when he threatened to sprinkle petrol on her and set her ablaze. In a moment of defiance, Muskan reportedly challenged him to act if he had the courage to do so.
Tragically, Aditya proceeded to carry out his threat, pouring petrol on the young girl and setting her on fire. The severe burn injuries caused Muskan to lose consciousness at the scene. Relatives who arrived at the location immediately informed local authorities, and Muskan was rushed to NMCH for emergency medical treatment.
Police Investigation and Ongoing Search
Despite approximately one week having passed since the incident occurred, the 22-year-old accused has not been apprehended by law enforcement authorities. Police officials have confirmed that intensive searches and raids are currently underway to locate and arrest Aditya Kumar.
Sadar SDPO-II, Ranjan Kumar, provided details about the formal complaint process, stating that the victim's mother filed an official complaint at the Gopalpur police station. In her statement, she alleged that a youth had attempted to set her daughter on fire by sprinkling petrol on her.
Before her tragic passing, Muskan managed to record her statement with the police, providing crucial details about the attack. This testimony is expected to play a significant role in the ongoing investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings.
Community Impact and Broader Implications
This heartbreaking case has highlighted serious concerns about women's safety and the dangers of obsessive behavior in relationships. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by young women, particularly in educational settings where they may be separated from their immediate family support systems.
The local community in Patna district has been deeply affected by this tragedy, with many calling for swift justice and improved safety measures for women and girls. As the police continue their efforts to apprehend the accused, questions are being raised about response times and preventive measures that could potentially avert such tragedies in the future.
This case underscores the urgent need for comprehensive approaches to addressing gender-based violence, including better community awareness, stronger law enforcement responses, and support systems for victims of such crimes.
