Protest Erupts in Kulgam Over Attempt to Burn Woman Alive by Husband Accused of Dowry Harassment, Extramarital Affair

Kulgam, July 29, KNT: In a shocking incident that has triggered widespread outrage, the family members of a young woman from Chatabal Kulgam on Tuesday staged a protest outside the office of the Superintendent of Police in Kulgam district, alleging that her husband attempted to set her on fire after years of harassment and cruelty.

The victim, whose identity is being withheld, suffered burn injuries and was shifted to hospital for treatment by the Kulgam police. Her condition is said to be stable. The accused, identified as Arif Ahmad Mir, a resident of Manzgam village in Kulgam, allegedly tried to burn his wife alive after subjecting her to prolonged domestic abuse, including dowry demands and physical torture.

The protesting family, carrying placards and shouting slogans, accused Arif of developing an extramarital affair with another woman, with whom he has now reportedly solemnized a second marriage. “My daughter has been facing cruelty at her in-laws’ house for years. This man wanted to get rid of her so that he could continue his relationship freely. His intention was murder,” said Mukhtar Ahmad, father of the victim.

According to the family, the victim had repeatedly complained of being beaten, threatened, and pressurized for dowry. “Despite giving everything we could, he was never satisfied. He was greedy and heartless,” alleged one of the relatives.

The protestors demanded the immediate arrest of the accused and stringent punishment for the attempted murder.

Responding to the protest, a senior police officer assured the aggrieved family that justice would be served and that the case was being treated with utmost seriousness. “We have registered a case under relevant sections of law at the Women’s Police Station, and investigations are underway,” the officer said.