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Chhattisgarh Woman Killed for Rejecting Ex’s Relationship Demand
A 25-year-old woman in Durg, Chhattisgarh, was brutally murdered and her body burned after she refused to restart a relationship with her ex-partner. The horrific crime has sparked outrage over gender-based violence and inadequate protections for women facing harassment.
How the Crime Unfolded
The victim, Priyanka Sahu (name changed), had ended a past relationship with Rahul Verma (name changed) but faced persistent pressure to reconcile. Police say Rahul lured her to an isolated spot under false pretenses. When she rejected him again, he strangled her, poured petrol on her body, and set it on fire to destroy evidence.
Arrest and Investigation
Villagers discovered the charred remains, prompting a police probe. Key evidence included:
– CCTV footage placing Rahul near the crime scene.
– Forensic reports confirming homicide before burning.
– Rahul’s confession, where he admitted killing her out of anger.
He was arrested under IPC Sections 302 (murder) and 201 (evidence destruction).
Public Outrage and Demands for Justice
The case has led to protests in Durg, with activists condemning the rising tide of violence against women who assert autonomy. Meera Kulkarni, a Raipur-based advocate, stated: “This is about entitlement—men believing women owe them relationships. Laws exist, but enforcement is weak.”
Alarming Rise in Gender Violence
NCRB data shows a 20% increase in crimes against women (2019–2021), including stalking and domestic abuse. Experts cite:
– Slow legal processes delaying justice.
– Normalized harassment dismisses early warning signs.
– Lack of accountability for repeat offenders.
How to Prevent Such Tragedies?
- Zero-Tolerance Policing: Immediate action on stalking/harassment complaints.
- Education on Consent: School programs to dismantle toxic masculinity.
- Fast-Track Courts: Prioritize gender-violence cases to reduce backlog.
- Community Vigilance: Train local groups to identify and report threats.
Conclusion
Priyanka’s murder underscores the deadly cost of misogyny. While her killer faces trial, systemic reforms—from policing to cultural attitudes—are urgent to protect women’s lives.
—NextMinuteNews
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