Nagpur, India: A 47-year-old woman, Shraddha Vajani, ended her life by setting herself on fire after facing years of harassment from her husband and sister-in-law. The tragic incident happened in Quetta Colony under the Lakadganj police station. Police have registered a case against her husband, Amit Vajani, and his sister, Aarti Vajani.

Shraddha married Amit in 2002 in a love marriage. They lived together with Amit’s unmarried sister, Aarti. Soon after the wedding, Shraddha started facing harassment, which only worsened over time. Six years ago, she left Amit’s house due to the abuse but later returned after her family helped in a reconciliation. However, the harassment continued.

During Diwali, Amit’s mother, Shobhabehan, died from burns caused by a lit lamp. Before her death, she had transferred her ancestral property to Aarti. Shraddha suspected foul play, which led to more trouble for her. Amit and Aarti allegedly pressured her to leave the house and even threatened to frame her for Shobhabehan’s death.

On January 26, the situation became worse. Amit and Aarti once again asked Shraddha to leave. She went to her parental home in the afternoon but returned at 8 PM. When she arrived, the harassment continued. Feeling hopeless, Shraddha set herself on fire at 9 PM. Neighbours heard her screams, broke open the door, and rushed her to the hospital. Despite treatment, she died from her injuries on Tuesday.

Shraddha’s father, Murlidhar Gupta, filed a complaint against Amit and Aarti. Police have now registered a case against them for harassment and abetment of suicide.

Sadly, this was not the first time Shraddha had asked for help. A year ago, she filed a complaint at Lakadganj Police Station, but only a minor case was registered, which did not stop the abuse. She also sought help from the Women’s Commission but did not receive any support.

Police are now investigating the case further.