Udaipur man sentenced to death for murdering wife over skin tone and weight

A court in Udaipur has sentenced a man to death for the brutal murder of his wife, whom he repeatedly harassed over her dark complexion and physical appearance, officials confirmed on Sunday.

The convict, identified as Kishan, was found guilty of killing his wife, Laxmi, by pouring acid on her and setting her on fire. According to the prosecution, Kishan had a history of verbally abusing Laxmi, frequently taunting her about her skin tone and weight, reports News 18.

On the night of the incident, Kishan allegedly told his wife he had brought her a medicinal ointment. After applying it to her body, Laxmi noticed a strong acidic smell.

When she questioned it, Kishan dismissed her concerns and lit an incense stick on her stomach, causing her clothes to ignite. He then poured the remaining liquid over her, resulting in fatal burns.

The case was registered at Vallabhnagar police station, and the trial was held in the court of the Additional District Judge.

Speaking to the media, public prosecutor Paliwal stated, “He continuously humiliated her for her dark skin and ultimately killed her in a brutal manner.”

While delivering the verdict, the judge noted the rising number of such heinous crimes and said the death penalty was essential “to keep the fear of the court alive in society.”