A 28-year-old pregnant woman died after the car she was traveling in caught fire in Kozhikode on Friday night, and her relatives have alleged foul play, citing suspicious circumstances and preliminary forensic findings that ruled out major mechanical faults.
Incident Details
The victim, Sona, daughter of Sreenivasan of Kallikkandi Meethal at Kuyimpil, was traveling with her husband Rejinlal of Poovathumchalil at Kakkaramukk near Cheruvannur. The fire broke out around 9 pm on the Cheruvannur-Kakkaramukk road. Sona died before she could be taken to the hospital, while Rejinlal, who was driving, sustained serious burn injuries but managed to escape the vehicle.
Family Allegations
Sona's uncle, A K Sathyan, expressed suspicion about the incident. "Local residents said they heard a loud blast. There were reportedly no defects in the engine or fuel tank. The fact that Sona, who was pregnant, was seated in the rear seat also raises suspicion, especially since the fire reportedly originated from the rear portion of the car," he said.
Relatives claimed there were differences of opinion between the couple and demanded a comprehensive probe into Sona's death. They questioned why Sona was in the rear seat instead of the front, and noted that forensic experts found no evidence of a short circuit or fuel tank defects.
Background of the Couple
According to relatives, Sona and Rejinlal met through social media. While wedding preparations were underway, Rejinlal reportedly tried to back out. Sona allegedly attempted suicide at Vadakara after learning this. Later, Rejinlal assured her he would marry her, and the couple registered their marriage in 2023.
Investigation Status
Rejinlal is currently undergoing treatment at Kozhikode Govt Medical College Hospital, and police have yet to record his statement. Authorities are awaiting forensic reports to determine if any inflammable substance or explosive was present at the time of the incident.
