Big twist in Greater Noida dowry death case: Hospital staff say Nikki Bhati told them burns were caused by cylinder blast

In light of previous allegations that Nikki was set ablaze by her husband and in-laws over dowry demands, investigators are now also examining several video clips circulating publicly in connection with the case

In a big twist into the alleged dowry death case of 28-year-old Nikki Bhati, police said that the victim reportedly told doctors that she had suffered burns in a cylinder blast at her in-laws' home.

A hospital memo states that Bhati was admitted on August 21 in critical condition, having sustained severe burns in a gas cylinder explosion at her residence. She was taken to the hospital by her husband, Vipin Bhati's cousin.

"The statement of the doctors and nurses who were present at the time of her admission has been recorded. Nikki told them that she sustained burn injuries due to a blast in a gas cylinder," a police official was quoted as saying by PTI.

All the angles in the case are currently being investigated by the police – with statements being recorded before any further action is taken. Police has sent an inflammable liquid found in Nikki’s room for forensic analysis.

In light of previous allegations that Nikki was set ablaze by her husband and in-laws over dowry demands, investigators are now also examining several video clips circulating publicly in connection with the case.

Nikki, 28, died on August 22, a day after she was admitted to the hospital with severe burns. All four accused — husband Vipin, father-in-law Satyaveer, mother-in-law Daya, and brother-in-law Rohit — have since been arrested.

Her father alleged that the in-laws harassed his daughter for money, even troubling her when she tried to run a parlour. He has also sought strict action against the accused.

The FIR in Nikki's case has been registered under sections 103(1) (murder), 115(2) (voluntarily causing hurt), and 61(2) (attempt to commit offences punishable with life imprisonment) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Meanwhile, the family members of Nikki met with a member of the Uttar Pradesh State Commission for Women on Wednesday and demanded a fast-track court trial in the case.