Kerala: Husband Sets Wife On Fire After She Files Domestic Violence Case

In a shocking incident, a 36-year-old man, Shyam G Chandran, set his estranged wife on fire on the morning of February 19 on a public road in Cherthala. The wife, 30-year-old Aarthi, was taken to the hospital but by the evening, she succumbed to her injuries. Last year, Aarthi had registered a complaint of domestic violence against her husband and alleged that he used to threaten her. Shyam was arrested earlier this year but was later released. 

Aarthi was from Vettackal near Cherthala and was employed at a private financial firm in Cherthala. On the day of the incident, she was going to her work when Shyam intercepted her two-wheeler near Government Taluk Hospital. He doused her with petrol and set her ablaze in the broad daylight, turning a normal day into a nightmare. 

What did the eyewitness say?

The eyewitness said that Shyam didn't stop pouring petrol on Aarthi even after setting her alight. She was trying to run away and protect herself but he had already set her on fire. She went to a nearby house and the residents took her to the hospital. 

The woman was rushed to the Government Taluk Hospital and later shifted to Government Medical College (MCH), Alappuzha where she succumbed to her injuries. Shyam, the accused, also suffered from some burn injuries and was admitted to the Medical College. 

The police have registered a case and an investigation is going on. One of the police officers said, "The couple got separated last year. Family issues have resulted in the murder."

Issue of domestic violence

Last year, Aarthi had filed a domestic violence case against Shyam and the court had ordered necessary protection to be provided to her. On February 4, 2024, the Pattanakkad police arrested Shyam under non-bailable charges of violating the court order when Aarthi accused him of threatening her. But later, he was released. 

The couple has two children. Some reports suggest that the horrific incident took place despite the court's intervention in the domestic conflict, restraining orders and police protection for Aarthi which raises questions on the ability of the authorities to protect women from such gruesome crimes emanating from a larger issue of domestic violence. The incident has shocked the community and initiated furore among people who are demanding stricter actions against domestic violence. The local authorities have affirmed that the case will be pursued with vigour.