Delhi High Court Denies Anticipatory Bail in Dowry Harassment Case Leading to Suicide
Court grants bail to one co-accused due to lack of direct involvement; highlights severity of dowry-related cruelty.
In a significant judgment, the Delhi High Court, presided over by Dr. Swarana Kanta Sharma, J., has denied anticipatory bail to two accused individuals in a dowry harassment case that tragically led to the suicide of 25-year-old Nikita Gambhir. The decision was delivered on September 26, 2025, concerning applications filed under Bail Appln. 3708/2025, 3711/2025, and 3717/2025.
The case revolved around the unnatural death of Nikita, who was found dead at her parental home on August 22, 2025. It was alleged that the deceased had been subjected to persistent dowry demands and cruelty by her husband and in-laws, leading her to take the drastic step of ending her life. The allegations included demands for a Scorpio car and other valuables, along with severe physical and mental abuse.
The court's decision was based on the gravity of the allegations, witness statements, and transcript evidence that indicated continuous harassment and cruelty towards the deceased. The father-in-law and brother-in-law of the deceased, who were among the applicants, were denied bail due to the corroborative evidence against them.
Dr. Swarana Kanta Sharma noted that despite the accused living on separate floors of the same house, the family was closely involved in the deceased's life, and the mere separation of living spaces did not discount their involvement. The court also highlighted the family's failure to join the investigation and their lack of cooperation with the authorities.
In a contrasting decision, the court granted anticipatory bail to Akansha, the deceased's sister-in-law. The court found that she had shown empathy towards the victim and had not been directly involved in the harassment. Her supportive conduct and the absence of incriminating evidence led to her bail being granted, albeit with conditions such as cooperation with the investigation and restrictions on leaving the country.
This judgment underscores the persistent issue of dowry harassment and its severe consequences, reaffirming the judiciary's role in addressing such social evils. The case serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing struggle against dowry-related violence and the need for societal change.
Bottom Line:
Anticipatory bail denied to accused persons involved in dowry harassment and cruelty leading to suicide of the deceased, considering the gravity of allegations and evidence on record. Anticipatory bail granted to co-accused due to lack of direct involvement and supportive conduct towards the victim.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 Sections 80/85/3(5)
Rahul Sahni v. State (NCT of Delhi), (Delhi) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2785131
