A surprising development has emerged in the tragic death of Nikki Bhati in Greater Noida, where a hospital memo suggests her severe burn injuries resulted from a gas cylinder explosion, challenging initial allegations of dowry-related murder. The 26-year-old was allegedly set on fire by her husband, Vipin Bhati, on August 21 in Sirsa village, according to a First Information Report (FIR) filed by her family. However, the memo from a private hospital, where Nikki was first admitted, states in Hindi: “Ghar par gas cylinder fatne se mareej ko kaafi gambheer roop se jal gaya hai” (The patient has suffered severe burn injuries due to a gas cylinder explosion at home). The document notes that Nikki was brought to the facility by Devendra, a relative, and was in critical condition.
Adding to the complexity, CCTV footage from a shop near the Bhati residence, timestamped around the incident, shows a man identified by locals as Vipin standing outside, seemingly unaware of the event unfolding inside. This contradicts claims by Nikki’s family, who allege Vipin deliberately set her ablaze. Statements from family members further muddy the waters, with Nikki’s sister, Kanchan, asserting in the FIR that Vipin and his family were responsible for the act, while Devendra insists it was an accidental explosion.
The case has drawn significant attention, with the National Commission for Women (NCW) calling for a swift investigation and protection for Nikki’s family and witnesses. Police have arrested Vipin, his parents Satveer and Daya, and his brother Rohit, as the investigation continues. Authorities are scrutinizing all evidence, including the hospital memo, CCTV footage, and conflicting family accounts, to determine the true cause of Nikki’s death. The probe remains ongoing, with officials emphasizing that all angles will be thoroughly examined before conclusions are drawn, according to Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Greater Noida) Sudheer Kumar, as reported by PTI.
