Maharashtra Horror: Husband Sets Wife on Fire Over Third Daughter

In a harrowing incident from Parbhani, Maharashtra, a man allegedly set his wife ablaze for giving birth to their third daughter. The tragic event drew attention after being reported by the Hindustan Times on December 28.

The Incident

The accused, identified as 32-year-old Kundlik Uttam Kale, reportedly poured petrol on his wife Maina during an altercation at Gangakhed Naka, situated approximately 520 kilometres from Mumbai. The victim succumbed to her injuries while being transported to a hospital.

Police Investigation

According to police reports, the incident was brought to light by the victim’s sister, who informed the Mumbai Police. She revealed that Kale often criticized his wife for bearing three daughters, leading to frequent conflicts. On the night of the incident, during yet another dispute, he took the drastic step of setting her on fire.

“After the argument, Kundlik poured petrol on her and ignited the fire. Maina fled the house in agony, with bystanders attempting to extinguish the flames. Unfortunately, she had suffered severe burns and did not survive the journey to the hospital,” an official narrated to PTI.

Legal Actions

The local authorities at Gangakhed police station have since arrested Kundlik Uttam Kale, charging him with murder. The case echoes the pressing need for addressing gender-based violence and the deep-seated biases against female children in certain communities.

Related Incidents of Violence

This tragic incident follows another grievous crime reported earlier in the week. In Pune, a 54-year-old man named Ajay Das allegedly sexually assaulted and murdered two young sisters, aged 8 and 9. Working as a cook, Das was a neighbor to the victims in Rajgurunagar’s jurisdiction.

The children’s disappearance led to a police complaint, which subsequently uncovered their bodies in a water drum near their home. Das’s heinous actions came to light as he planned his escape, only to be apprehended by authorities in a nearby Pune hotel. Charges of rape and murder have been filed against him.

These incidents highlight severe societal issues and the urgent need for preventive measures and justice in the fight against such horrifying crimes.