Ex-Major's daughter 'harassed' for dowry, four booked

Four members of a family have been booked in Hadiabad, Phagwara, following allegations by a young woman of sustained physical and mental harassment for dowry.

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The case was registered on the basis of a complaint by Major Jatinder Kumar (retd), a resident of Lakhanpal village, whose daughter Sonam Sharma was allegedly subjected to domestic abuse by her husband and in-laws. The accused have been identified as Sonam’s husband Bindusar Sharma, his father Manu Sharma, mother Malika Sharma, and brother Sawindu Sharma.

According to the complainant, his daughter was married to Bindusar and sufficient dowry was given. However, soon after the marriage, the in-laws began to pressure Sonam for additional dowry in the form of expensive gifts and cash. When their demands were not met, the victim was harassed, both physically and mentally, over a prolonged period.

Major Kumar stated that despite repeated attempts at reconciliation, the situation worsened and Sonam was left emotionally and physically distressed.

Phagwara SP Rupinder Kaur Bhatti said the police have booked all four accused under Sections 498A (cruelty to woman by husband or relatives), 406 (criminal breach of trust), and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)

She stated that investigations are underway. "We have taken the victim’s statement and are examining all evidence, including medical reports and digital communications. The accused have not yet been arrested, but further action will be taken based on the outcome of the inquiry," the SP said.