Greater Noida Woman Burnt Alive: Dying Declaration Points to Cylinder Blast, Police Suspect Cover-Up

Greater Noida police said on Wednesday that Nikki Bhati, the 28-year-old woman allegedly set on fire by her husband and in-laws last week, told doctors in her “dying declaration” that she suffered burns while cooking. Investigators, however, believe she may have deliberately concealed the truth to protect her younger sister, who is married into the same family.

According to the medico-legal certificate, Nikki stated she was injured in a cylinder blast at home. But police later ruled out such a blast after finding the kitchen intact and recovering an empty thinner bottle and lighter, now key evidence. Her autopsy confirmed death due to burn injuries.

Kasna SHO Dharmendra Shukla said Nikki’s words may have been an attempt to shield her in-laws. Investigators also said her reluctance could be linked to her sister’s safety. Nikki’s sister Kanchan, however, told police she saw Nikki engulfed in flames while husband Vipin stood nearby, even managing to record part of the incident before fainting.

Nikki’s family initially resisted a post-mortem but relented after police intervention. The case was reported nearly 20 hours after her cremation, following a village panchayat. Police have since booked four family members under murder, conspiracy and related charges. Vipin Bhati was arrested after being shot in the leg when he allegedly tried to flee; his parents and brother have also been taken into custody.

The case has drawn national attention and competing claims from both families. Police have urged the public not to interfere, warning that a “media trial” is hampering investigation.

On Wednesday, Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission member Meenakshi Bharala met Nikki’s family, demanding swift justice and promising a chargesheet soon. She also announced financial aid of ₹4,000 per month each for Nikki’s son and her sister Kanchan’s two children until they turn 18.