Bengaluru: A 35-year-old woman has accused her mother-in-law of pouring acid on her legs during a violent altercation allegedly triggered by a long-standing property dispute in the Siddapura police station limits. The incident, which reportedly occurred on the morning of January 3, has shocked local residents and prompted a police investigation, with CCTV footage said to have captured parts of the assault.

Complaint details and sequence of events

According to the complaint filed by Ashwini Umesh, her mother-in-law, Kempamma, and father-in-law, Muniraj, arrived at her residence around 9.20 am on January 3 and began quarrelling with her over an ongoing property issue. Ashwini stated that the argument quickly escalated into physical violence.

In her statement to the police, Ashwini alleged that during the heated exchange, Kempamma suddenly poured acid on her legs, causing burn injuries. The complainant said she screamed in pain and called for help, alerting neighbours and passersby to the incident.

Alleged attempt to attack husband

Ashwini further alleged that when she cried out, the accused attempted to force their way into the house. She claimed that Kempamma and Muniraj tried to attack her husband, Umesh, who works as a cab driver, during the same incident.

According to the complaint, the situation turned more chaotic as the accused allegedly became increasingly aggressive. Ashwini said she feared for both her life and her husband’s safety as the altercation intensified.

Claims of physical assault and threats

The complainant also accused her father-in-law, Muniraj, a retired government employee, of assaulting her with a stick. She further alleged that he issued threats of sexual assault during the confrontation, adding a grave dimension to the case.

Ashwini told the police that Kempamma, with the alleged assistance of her son Manjunath, attempted to assault her husband. During this scuffle, Ashwini claimed she was pushed aside and held by the neck, leaving her traumatised and physically injured.

CCTV footage and police response

A senior police officer confirmed that the incident was captured on CCTV cameras installed in and around the premises. The footage, police said, is being closely examined as part of the investigation to establish the sequence of events and verify the allegations made by the complainant.

“The footage is an important piece of evidence in this case. We are analysing it along with statements from the complainant, the accused, and possible witnesses,” the officer said.

Long-standing property dispute

Police sources indicated that frequent quarrels have been reported between the two families for several years, largely revolving around the disputed property. The officer added that multiple verbal disputes had earlier been brought to the notice of local residents, though no major criminal complaints had been formally registered until now.

Investigators believe that the long-running nature of the dispute may have contributed to the escalation of tensions, ultimately resulting in the alleged assault.

Legal provisions and investigation

Based on the complaint, the Siddapura police have registered a case and initiated further investigation. Sections relating to assault, causing hurt using dangerous substances, criminal intimidation, and other relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita are likely to be invoked, depending on the outcome of the probe.

Police are also awaiting medical reports detailing the extent of Ashwini’s injuries. The severity of the acid burns and medical opinion will play a crucial role in determining the charges and the gravity of the offence.

Neighbours react with concern

Neighbours expressed shock over the incident, stating that while disputes between the families were known, the alleged use of acid marked a disturbing escalation. Some residents said they rushed to the spot after hearing Ashwini’s screams and helped her seek medical attention.

Residents have urged the authorities to take strict action to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of those involved.

Conclusion

The alleged acid attack underscores the severe consequences that prolonged family and property disputes can take if left unresolved. As the investigation progresses, police are relying on CCTV footage, medical evidence and witness statements to piece together the full picture. Authorities have reiterated that strong legal action will be taken if the allegations are proven, stressing that violence, particularly involving dangerous substances, will not be tolerated under any circumstances.