A shocking case of domestic violence stemming from a property dispute has rocked a family in the national capital. A 65-year-old retired Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel was allegedly beaten to death by his own daughter-in-law at their home in Delhi's Paschim Vihar area. The incident, which highlights the grim consequences of familial conflicts over assets, led to the immediate arrest of the accused woman.
The Fatal Altercation Over Property
The victim, identified as Ramesh Chand, a former IAF corporal, lived with his son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. According to the police, the tragic event unfolded on the evening of April 26. A heated argument erupted between Ramesh Chand and his daughter-in-law, Pooja, over the ownership and distribution of the family's property.
The verbal spat quickly turned violent. In a fit of rage, Pooja is alleged to have physically assaulted the elderly man. She reportedly picked up a blunt object and repeatedly hit him, causing severe injuries. The retired airman collapsed on the spot. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Ramesh Chand was declared dead by the doctors. The post-mortem report confirmed that the cause of death was trauma from the assault.
Police Investigation and Arrest
Upon receiving information about the death, a team from the Paschim Vihar police station arrived at the scene. After a preliminary inquiry and based on statements from family members, the police registered a case of murder against the daughter-in-law, Pooja. She was taken into custody on the same night.
During interrogation, the accused purportedly confessed to the crime, stating that the fight was triggered by the long-standing property dispute. The police have stated that the investigation is ongoing to piece together the complete sequence of events and to ascertain if there were any other contributing factors or individuals involved.
Family Tragedy and Broader Implications
This incident has left the family devastated, transforming a home into a crime scene. Neighbors expressed shock and disbelief, describing the retired airman as a quiet and respected person. The case serves as a stark reminder of how property disputes can tear families apart and lead to extreme violence, even within the sanctity of a home.
It also raises questions about the safety and security of elderly parents living with their children. Legal experts often warn that property-related disagreements are among the leading causes of familial discord and litigation in India. This tragic outcome in Paschim Vihar underscores the potential for such disputes to escalate beyond civil courts into criminal tragedy.
The police have assured that the law will take its course. The accused daughter-in-law is currently in judicial custody and will face trial for the grave charges against her. The local community remains in a state of shock, grappling with the brutal reality of a dispute that claimed the life of a man who once served the nation.
