Canadian citizen booked for dowry harassment

A case has been registered by the Khanna police against a native of Chandigarh and citizen of Canada, Pankaj Dharni, for allegedly harassing his wife over dowry demand. The complaint was filed by Nitika Sharma, who married Pankaj on January 31, 2024, in a Hindu ceremony.

Pankaj and his family reportedly demanded cash, expensive items and other dowry from Nitika’s family, forcing them to hold the wedding at a luxurious marriage palace.

After the wedding, Nitika lived with her in-laws in Chandigarh, where they took control of dowry items, including gold jewellery and household goods. Pankaj left for Canada on March 2, 2024, and began quarrelling with Nitika over minor issues. His family also allegedly harassed her, citing insufficient dowry.

In June 2024, instead of taking Nitika to Canada, her in-laws dropped her off at her parental home in Khanna. When Pankaj returned to India, he did not allow his wife to enter her marital home.

The police after registering a case have started further proceedings.