Kerala: Newly-Wed Alleges Assault By Husband Over Dowry, SHRC Initiates Probe

In Kerala, the victim recounted to TV channels that her husband had brutally assaulted her and attempted to strangle her with a mobile phone charging cable following an argument over dowry.

In a statement, Kerala State Human Rights Commission explained that this action was prompted by the interviews the woman gave to TV channels.

A day after a bride accused her husband of brutally assaulting and attempting to kill her within a week after their wedding over dowry demand, Kerala State Human Rights Commission initiated a suo motu proceeding and ordered a probe. The details of the assault emerged when the newly-wed woman and her family reported to TV channels that the police in Pantheerankavu, where the husband resides, attempted to settle the case rather than taking their complaint seriously.

On Tuesday, Kerala State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC) took suo motu cognizance of the woman's domestic violence complaint and ordered an investigation.

In a statement, the Commission explained that this action was prompted by the interviews the woman gave to TV channels.

Acting Chairperson and Judicial Member of the KSHRC, K Byjunath, directed the Kozhikode City Police Commissioner to conduct a detailed investigation and submit a report within 15 days.

 

As news of the alleged assault spread, State Minister of Health and Women and Child Development, Veena George, assured that the victim would receive comprehensive support, including legal assistance.

Describing the assault as extremely cruel and shocking to the conscience, the minister emphasised that strong legal action will be taken to deter such crimes. She also urged society to unite against social evils like dowry and domestic violence.

Earlier in the day, the victim recounted to TV channels that her husband had brutally assaulted her and attempted to strangle her with a mobile phone charging cable. She alleged that the assault occurred following an argument over dowry.

 

"Right before marriage we had told the groom's family what we could give and he (husband) had said he was okay with that. Now he claims that he deserves more dowry and also a car," she alleged, as per a report on PTI.