Woman critical after being set aflame by husband

 

By Sagaya Fernando  | June 1, 2025

 

Mumbai, Maharashtra, INDIA: A 38-year-old woman from Chembur’s Vashi Naka locality in Mumbai, the financial capital of India, sustained severe burn injuries after she was allegedly set ablaze by her husband during a domestic altercation in the early hours of May 30.

 

The victim, Rekha Awhad, who works as a domestic help, is currently undergoing treatment at the government-run Sion Hospital, where doctors have reported her condition as critical but stable. 

 

According to police officials from RCF Police Station, the dispute began when Rekha’s husband, Dinesh Awhad, 46, demanded physical intimacy as she was preparing to leave for work. Rekha reportedly declined, which allegedly led to a heated exchange. 

 

Dinesh is accused of verbally abusing her and accusing her of infidelity. According to the police statement, Rekha, in a fit of distress, poured kerosene over herself and attempted to set herself on fire but failed.

 

It is alleged that Dinesh then threw a burning piece of paper at her, causing the kerosene to ignite. Rekha suffered burn injuries covering approximately 70 percent of her body.

 

Emergency services were called to the scene, and she was rushed to Sion Hospital. 

 

Police have arrested Dinesh Awhad and registered a case under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including attempted murder and domestic violence. He remains in police custody as investigations continue.

 

Authorities have urged the public to report domestic abuse and have reiterated their commitment to addressing gender-based violence through swift legal action.