Major Twist in Nikki Bhati Dowry Death Case as Prime Witness Turns Hostile and Families Reach Settlement

Nine months after the tragic death of 28-year-old Nikki Bhati from severe burn injuries in Greater Noida, a significant development has emerged in the case, with her family reaching a settlement with her in-laws.

According to reports, the Uttar Pradesh government counsel informed the court that Nikki’s sister Kanchan, who served as the prime witness and was married into the same family, turned hostile during her testimony before a local court in Noida approximately 20 days ago. Kanchan had previously accused her brother-in-law Vipin Bhati, mother-in-law Daya, and other family members of setting Nikki ablaze over dowry demands.

The families arrived at the compromise through panchayat mediation. Under the agreement, property will be transferred in the names of Nikki Bhati’s children to secure their future. Financial assistance was also arranged for Nikki’s family. In return, her parents have agreed to withdraw the case by filing an appropriate affidavit in court.

Following the settlement, Kanchan, who had been staying with her parents in Roopvas village, is set to return to her marital home with her husband Rohit in a new house in Dadri. The understanding includes assurances of no interference from her in-laws in her married life.

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Nikki Bhati died on August 21 last year at Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital after sustaining around 80% burn injuries at her residence in Sirsa village, Greater Noida. Her sister Kanchan had captured the harrowing moments as Nikki descended the stairs engulfed in flames. Police investigations led to the arrest of Vipin Bhati, his parents, and his elder brother. A detailed 173-page chargesheet was filed in November, charging the four with murder.

The next hearing in the case is scheduled for June 10. While the settlement marks a major turn, the state is expected to continue prosecuting the non-compoundable offence of murder. Legal experts note that the prime witness turning hostile could significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.