Parbhani: In a shocking incident of gender-based violence, a man allegedly set his wife ablaze in Parbhani district, Maharashtra, reportedly enraged by the birth of their third daughter. The victim, 34-year-old Maina Kundalik Kale, succumbed to severe burn injuries.
The incident occurred on the night of December 26 in the Gangakhed Naka area and was captured on a nearby CCTV camera. The footage provided crucial evidence leading to the arrest of the accused.
According to police reports, Kundalik doused Maina with petrol and set her on fire following a heated argument. He was reportedly unhappy with the birth of their third daughter, which had led to frequent disputes.
As flames engulfed her, Maina screamed for help. Local residents rushed to extinguish the fire but could not save her. She was taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition but succumbed to her injuries before medical assistance could be administered.
Maina’s sister filed a complaint at Gangakhed police station, accusing Kundalik of murder. Based on the complaint and CCTV footage, the police promptly arrested the accused and registered a case under relevant IPC sections.
The incident has sparked outrage in the local community and beyond, with activists condemning the persistence of gender discrimination and violence against women. “This is a grim reminder of how deeply entrenched patriarchal norms can lead to such heinous acts,” said a local women’s rights advocate. Authorities have assured a thorough investigation to ensure justice for Maina and her family.
