In a shocking turn of events, the victim in the high-profile Pantheerankavu domestic violence case has once again accused her husband of physical abuse, months after the Kerala High Court quashed the earlier case on a joint plea by the couple.
Police reported that the woman was admitted to Kozhikode Medical College on Monday evening with injuries in face, lips and an eye. Her husband, Rahul P Gopal, had brought her to the hospital, but the circumstances surrounding her injuries raised suspicions, as per a report on PTI.
According to a senior police official, the victim was initially unwilling to file a formal complaint against her husband. However, on Tuesday, she decided to proceed with the complaint, and her statement is currently being recorded. The husband has been detained for questioning.
However, the police are likely to book charges against him after recording a detailed statement from the woman.
A History of Allegations and Reconciliation
This case first gained attention in May when the woman accused her husband of attempting to strangle her with a mobile charging cable and assaulting her over dowry demands. Her family supported her allegations, stating that the assault occurred barely a week after their wedding.
However, in June, the victim uploaded a video on social media retracting her accusations, claiming they were fabricated under pressure from her parents. In the video, she apologised to her husband and his family, stating that the allegations were baseless.
"Further action will be taken based on her statement," the officer said, as per the report.
Following this, the couple approached the Kerala High Court to quash the case, which was granted. The latest complaint has reignited concerns over the woman’s safety and the authenticity of her earlier retraction.
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