Unraveling the Enigma: CCTV Footage Shakes Dowry Death Probe of Nikki Bhati

The tragic death of 22-year-old Nikki Bhati, who was found with severe burn injuries at her in-laws' home in Sirsa, Greater Noida, has taken a gripping turn as new evidence emerges from a crucial CCTV camera. The case, initially registered as a dowry death, has intensified with the discovery of footage that places Nikki's husband, Vipin, outside their residence at the very moment his wife was allegedly set on fire.

According to police reports, Nikki Bhati succumbed to her injuries on July 29, 2024.

Her family has vehemently alleged that she was a victim of dowry harassment and ultimately murdered by Vipin and his relatives. They claim that Vipin was present inside the house and directly responsible for her demise, painting a grim picture of domestic abuse culminating in a fatal act.

However, the new CCTV footage introduces a perplexing layer to the investigation.

The video clearly shows Vipin standing outside the house for approximately 12 minutes during the critical period when the incident is believed to have occurred. This discovery directly challenges the family's assertion of Vipin's immediate presence inside the home and potentially provides him with an alibi, or at least a different account of his immediate whereabouts.

While the footage might suggest Vipin was not physically inside the house at the exact moment of the fire, police authorities are quick to emphasize that this does not absolve him of potential involvement.

"The footage shows Vipin was outside the house for about 12 minutes when his wife was set on fire. We are examining the footage from all angles to determine if he was involved in any capacity, directly or indirectly," stated a police official involved in the probe. The investigation continues to explore whether others, such as Vipin's mother-in-law and sister-in-law, could have played a role, as alleged by Nikki's distraught family.

Nikki Bhati had married Vipin just five months prior to her death, in February 2024.

Her family reported that dowry demands began shortly after the wedding, escalating into harassment. The First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged under serious sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 304B (dowry death), 498A (husband or relative of husband of a woman subjecting her to cruelty), and 302 (murder), indicating the gravity with which the authorities are treating the accusations.

The emerging CCTV evidence has added a complex dimension to an already tragic case, raising more questions than answers.

Investigators are meticulously analyzing the timing, Vipin's actions before and after the 12-minute window, and corroborating all available evidence with witness statements. The police remain committed to uncovering the full truth behind Nikki Bhati's untimely death, ensuring that justice is served for the young woman whose life was cut short under such harrowing circumstances.