Pregnant Defence staffer dies by suicide, in-laws accused of harassment
What's the story
A 30-year-old pregnant Assistant Section Officer in the Ministry of Defence, Naziya Khanam, died by suicide at her home in Delhi's Dwarka on August 21, India Today reported. Her family has alleged that she was subjected to continuous mental and physical harassment by her husband, Ajm Ali Khan, and in-laws. The allegations have been detailed in a First Information Report (FIR) filed under Sections 85 and 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Allegations
Family accuses husband, in-laws of continuous harassment
Naziya's father, Towab Khan, alleged that his daughter was harassed by her husband Ajm Ali Khan, mother-in-law Samin Nisha and father-in-law Babar Ali Khan.
The family claimed she was verbally abused, physically assaulted and threatened with eviction and death.
Towab said Naziya had informed them about the harassment over phone calls. Despite complaints, there was no change in her husband's behavior.
Discrepancies
Husband's statement and family's suspicion
According to the husband's statement, an argument led to him being locked in a room and finding Naziya hanging from a ceiling fan after being rescued by their landlord.
However, the family suspects foul play and demands further investigation into what they believe was a staged suicide.
They have also demanded a detailed post-mortem examination and videography of evidence related to the case.
Investigation
Investigation underway, case registered
The family has demanded a post-mortem and videography of the evidence and proceedings. Sub-Inspector Satpal Dagar reached the scene to investigate.
Naziya's body was sent to DDU Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination.
The investigation is ongoing with police registering the case under Sections 85 (cruelty by husband or his relatives) and 108 (abetment of suicide) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.