NCW Seeks Action Taken Report From UP DGP in Deepika Nagar Death Case; Dowry Harassment Allegations Trigger Probe
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognisance of the death of 24-year-old Deepika Nagar in Greater Noida and directed the Uttar Pradesh Police to submit a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR) within seven days.
The Commission’s intervention comes amid serious allegations of dowry harassment, domestic abuse and suspected murder raised by the victim’s family. The case has drawn significant public attention and once again brought the issue of dowry-related violence against married women into focus.
Vijaya Rahatkar Writes to UP DGP
NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has written to the Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh, seeking immediate, impartial and time-bound action in the matter.
According to the Commission, media reports suggest that Deepika Nagar had allegedly been subjected to repeated dowry demands, physical abuse and mental harassment by her in-laws after marriage. The Commission noted that the woman was reportedly under severe emotional distress before her death.
As per preliminary reports, Deepika allegedly jumped from the roof of her matrimonial home, a three-storey building located in Gautam Buddh Nagar district, on Sunday. However, her family has strongly disputed the suicide angle and alleged that she was murdered by her in-laws.
NCW Seeks Detailed Investigation Report
The National Commission for Women has sought extensive details from the Uttar Pradesh Police regarding the ongoing investigation.
The Commission has asked the police to provide information on the legal provisions invoked in the FIR, action taken under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the applicability of provisions under the Dowry Prohibition Act.
In addition, the NCW has sought updates on arrests made so far, the overall progress of the investigation, and whether any previous complaints of harassment had been filed by the victim.
The Commission has also requested details regarding forensic and electronic evidence collected in the case, post-mortem findings, and the alleged role of each accused person named in the FIR.
Apart from the criminal investigation, the NCW has asked the state police to furnish details about legal assistance, counselling, security and compensation being extended to the victim’s family.
The Commission further sought information about preventive and corrective measures being adopted by authorities to address dowry harassment and violence against married women.
Husband and Father-in-Law Arrested
Police have so far arrested Deepika’s husband, Hrithik, and her father-in-law, Manoj, in connection with the case. Authorities stated that efforts are continuing to trace and arrest the remaining accused persons named in the FIR.
Officials confirmed that the case has been registered under provisions relating to dowry death and other relevant sections of law.
Post-Mortem Report Reveals Serious Internal Injuries
According to details from the post-mortem report accessed by PTI, Deepika Nagar sustained severe internal injuries.
The report reportedly found brain hemorrhage and hematoma on the middle and left portions of the brain, along with bleeding from the mouth and left nostril. Doctors also noted rupture injuries to the liver, spleen and right kidney.
Multiple contusions were reportedly found on the victim’s arm and thigh.
Officials stated that viscera samples have been preserved and sent for forensic examination to determine whether any toxic substances were involved.
Fresh Spotlight on Dowry-Related Violence
The case has reignited debate over the continuing prevalence of dowry harassment and domestic violence in India despite stringent legal provisions.
The NCW stated that no leniency should be shown in cases involving dowry-related abuse and stressed that strict action must be taken against all those found guilty after investigation.
The Commission’s intervention is being viewed as an effort to ensure transparency, accountability and speedy investigation in a case that has triggered widespread concern over women’s safety and protection within matrimonial homes.
