Bengaluru: In a shocking case of domestic violence, a 35-year-old woman was set on fire by her live-in partner, leading to her death from severe burn injuries. The victim, identified as Vanajakshi, succumbed at a city hospital after battling for life.
Accused with troubling history
According to the police, the accused Vital, a cab driver and habitual alcoholic, has been married three times earlier. Investigators revealed that his relationships had been unstable due to his drinking habits and violent behaviour.
Vanajakshi, too, had been married twice before she entered into a live-in relationship with Vital nearly four years ago. While the couple initially lived together, the relationship soon turned toxic as Vital allegedly subjected her to repeated harassment, particularly when under the influence of alcohol.
Victim tried to move away
Police sources said Vanajakshi had recently distanced herself from Vital after enduring persistent abuse. She had begun living separately and had developed a friendship with Mariappa, a member of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike.
Investigators believe that Vital grew suspicious and enraged over her new association, which may have triggered the violent crime.
Crime and aftermath
The horrifying incident unfolded when Vital allegedly doused Vanajakshi with inflammable liquid and set her ablaze. Despite being rushed to hospital with severe burn injuries, she could not survive.
Police have registered a case of murder and domestic violence against Vital, who has been taken into custody. Officials said they are investigating the timeline of the crime, along with testimonies from neighbours and associates of the victim.
Broader concerns over domestic violence
The case has once again brought attention to the growing instances of domestic violence and intimate partner abuse in urban centres. Women’s rights activists in Bengaluru expressed concern that live-in relationships, while legally recognised, lack adequate safeguards for women when abuse escalates.
“Domestic violence is not confined to marriage. Women in live-in relationships are equally vulnerable, but they hesitate to seek help until it’s too late. Authorities need to create stronger awareness and provide protection mechanisms,” said a women’s organisation leader.
Police appeal
Officials urged women facing harassment or violence to approach the police without hesitation. “This is a tragic reminder of the dangers of ignoring repeated abuse. We appeal to women to report such cases at the earliest,” a senior officer said.
As the investigation progresses, police are expected to question Vital further and also record Mariappa’s statement to establish the sequence of events.
Vanajakshi’s death has left the community shaken, with residents demanding stricter measures to address domestic violence and protect vulnerable women.