After days of searching, police arrested the third accused in the Noida dowry death case on Monday. The accused, 55-year-old Rohit Bhati, the elder brother-in-law of the victim, was caught near the Sirsa toll in Haryana. He was booked for criminal conspiracy and murder after a complaint filed on August 22 by the victim’s elder sister, who is also married into the same family.

About the case

The case revolves around the brutal death of 28-year-old Nikki Bhati, who was allegedly tortured and set on fire by her husband and in-laws at their Greater Noida home last Thursday. Her husband, Vipin Bhati, has been named the prime accused and is currently in 14-day judicial custody. Nikki’s father-in-law is still absconding, while her mother-in-law, Sans Dayawati, was arrested on Sunday near JIMS Hospital in Greater Noida, where she had gone to meet her son Vipin.

Vipin tried to escape from police custody on Sunday while officers were taking him to recover a bottle of inflammable liquid he had allegedly purchased. During the attempt, he even tried to snatch a pistol from a policeman. Despite repeated warnings, he fled near Sirsa Chauraha, prompting police to open fire. A bullet struck his leg, and he was later caught and taken to a hospital for treatment. Shockingly, when asked if he regretted his actions, Vipin replied, “I have no remorse. I haven't killed her. She died on her own.”

Eyewitnesses to the crime include Nikki’s young son and sister. The son told police that his mother was doused with some liquid, slapped, and then set on fire with a lighter. Videos circulating on social media further show Nikki being dragged by her hair, beaten, and limping down the stairs after being set ablaze.

Nikki’s father revealed that despite meeting repeated dowry demands, his daughter faced constant harassment. He said the family first gave a Scorpio car, then a Bullet bike, but the demands did not stop. Recently, Vipin had even asked for a Mercedes.

The case has drawn national attention. The National Women’s Commission has sought a detailed action report from the Uttar Pradesh police within three days, demanding strict action against all accused.