Murder Over Dowry Demand? Kerala Woman Found Dead In UAE Apartment, Probe Underway

In a deeply disturbing series of incidents, three women from India, all reportedly facing dowry-related harassment, have died under suspicious or tragic circumstances in recent weeks. These cases span across Kerala, the UAE, and Uttar Pradesh, revealing a harrowing pattern of domestic abuse and dowry violence.

On Saturday, 29-year-old Athulya Sekhar, a native of Kollam, Kerala, was found dead in her apartment in Sharjah, UAE. Married to Satheesh since 2014, Athulya's mother has alleged that her daughter was assaulted by her husband between July 18 and 19, leading to her death. The family claims they had given Satheesh over 40 sovereigns of gold and a motorcycle as dowry. Sharjah authorities have registered a murder case against Satheesh.

This case follows another tragedy earlier this month involving 32-year-old Vipanchika Maniyan, also from Kollam. Vipanchika and her toddler were found dead in their Sharjah home on July 8. A handwritten note found at the scene alleged severe emotional abuse by her husband, Nidheesh Valiyaveettil, and his family. Her mother said the abuse began soon after her marriage in 2020, with constant humiliation, dowry pressure, and isolation.

In Uttar Pradesh's Baghpat, a third case unfolded as 28-year-old Manisha, married in 2023 to Kundan of Noida, died by suicide. Shockingly, she left a suicide note written on her body, accusing her husband and in-laws of persistent dowry demands despite already receiving ₹20 lakh and a motorcycle. "Kundan and his family are responsible for my death," the note read.

These heart-wrenching stories underscore the urgent need for stronger legal, social, and psychological support systems to combat dowry harassment. Victims and families often suffer in silence until it's too late.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help:

Vandrevala Foundation for Mental Health: 9999666555 / [email protected]

TISS iCall: 022-25521111 (Mon-Sat, 8 am to 10 pm)