- By Priyanka Koul
- Mon, 01 Sep 2025 02:29 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In a horrifying case of domestic abuse in Bengaluru, a 35-year-old woman named Vanajakshi died after being set ablaze by her live-in partner, Vithal. The accused, a cab driver and habitual drinker with three previous marriages, had been in a live-in relationship with Vanajakshi herself previously married twice for nearly four years.
Vanajakshi had reportedly distanced herself from Vithal due to repeated harassment linked to his alcoholism. She had also grown close to Mariappa, a Karnataka Rakshana Vedike member. On the day of the incident, Vithal followed Vanajakshi’s car as she was returning from a temple with Mariappa and a driver.
At a traffic signal, Vithal blocked the vehicle and threw petrol inside, splashing Vanajakshi, Mariappa, and the driver. While the others fled, he chased Vanajakshi, poured more petrol on her, and set her on fire using a lighter.
A man passing by noticed the horrifying act and rushed to her rescue. Using a cloth to extinguish the flames and he helped and took Vanajakshi to a private hospital. He sustained minor injuries during the rescue attempt. Vanajakshi, who had 60 per cent burn injuries, died at the hospital.
Vithal, who also suffered burns, was arrested within 24 hours. Senior officer Narayana M told NDTV that , "This entire issue stemmed from a marital mess. It is unfortunate what happened. We arrested the accused within 24 hours. We also deeply appreciate the efforts of the person who came to her rescue. Despite all attempts to save her, the woman succumbed. Stringent sections have been invoked to ensure the accused pays the price for this heinous crime."
