A 20-year-old woman attempted self-immolation at a police station in Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday night, demanding action against a man she accused of rape and refusal to marry. The incident occurred around 11 PM at Bijnor Kotwali, where the woman poured an inflammable substance on herself and set herself on fire. Police personnel rescued her and rushed her to a hospital, from where she was referred to a higher centre in Meerut. Doctors reported she suffered 50-60 per cent burns.
Background of the Case
According to Superintendent of Police Abhishek Jha, the woman initially lodged a rape case in 2024 against a man from Swaheri village and his family members. A report was submitted in that case. In 2025, she filed another complaint alleging the man established a relationship with her and later refused to marry her. The accused obtained a stay against his arrest from the high court, even as police submitted a chargesheet.
Sequence of Events on Sunday Night
Police stated that the woman arrived at Kotwali on Sunday night and insisted the accused be called immediately for talks. Police assured her the other party would be called on Monday for discussion. During this time, her stepfather allegedly brought a bottle containing an inflammable substance, which the woman used to set herself on fire inside the police station premises.
Mother's Allegations and Police Action
The woman's mother, in a complaint to police, alleged that the man's family was mentally harassing her daughter after she filed the case. SP Jha said Additional SP (City) has been asked to conduct an inquiry, and CCTV footage is being examined. "If any lapse is found, strict action will be taken," he said. Meanwhile, Kotwali in-charge Amar Singh Rathore has been suspended in connection with the incident. Police said further investigation is underway.
