A 35-year-old nurse died after she was allegedly set on fire by her husband during a domestic dispute over car loan repayments in Cooch Behar, police said on Thursday. The accused husband also sustained burn injuries during the incident and is currently undergoing treatment in hospital.
The victim, identified as Chhanda Roy, was employed in the maternity department of MJN Medical College and Hospital. The incident occurred on Wednesday night at the couple’s rented residence in the district.
According to local residents, Chhanda ran out of the house engulfed in flames, causing panic in the neighbourhood. Neighbours immediately rushed to help and took her to MJN Medical College and Hospital, where doctors declared her brought dead.
Police said Chhanda had been living in the rented apartment with her husband, Ranjit Roy, for about three and a half years. Ranjit works as a driver. Preliminary investigations suggest that the couple had been frequently arguing over the repayment of Equated Monthly Instalments (EMIs) for a car.
Investigators believe the vehicle had been purchased so that Ranjit could use it to earn income by operating it in Siliguri. However, financial stress related to the loan repayment reportedly led to repeated disputes between the couple.
A police official said the incident appears to have occurred following a severe domestic altercation, though authorities are examining all possible angles, including the possibility of foul play.
Police records also indicate that the couple’s disputes had earlier been brought to the attention of a women’s police station, although no formal complaint had been filed at the time.
Ranjit Roy also suffered burn injuries during the incident and has been admitted to the same hospital for treatment. Police officials said he remains under surveillance and that his statement will be recorded once his medical condition improves.
The body of the victim has been sent for post-mortem examination as part of the investigation. Authorities are currently attempting to determine whether the case involves murder, suicide, or another form of domestic violence.
Police also stated that the couple’s only daughter currently studies at a boarding school in Darjeeling.
