Bengaluru, India — A horrific attack in broad daylight has left a woman dead after her former partner allegedly set her on fire in a busy area of the city. The victim, identified as 25-year-old Vanajakshi, succumbed to her injuries on Sunday, just a day after the incident took place in the Hulimavu neighborhood.
Police have arrested 52-year-old Vittal, the woman’s former live-in partner, who is now in judicial custody. Witnesses reported that the violent act unfolded on Saturday afternoon while Vanajakshi was en route to visit her nephew at St. John’s Hospital. She was accompanied by Muniyappa, a male companion, when the confrontation occurred amid heavy traffic near Hommadevanahalli.
As traffic slowed, Vittal approached the couple and allegedly poured petrol on their vehicle. In a desperate attempt to escape, Vanajakshi exited the car, but while running, she stumbled, allowing Vittal the opportunity to spray her with petrol and ignite it with a lighter. Eyewitnesses described the chaos as several individuals attempted to intervene, with one passerby trying to seize the fuel canister. Tragically, two bystanders sustained burn injuries in the process of trying to help.
Before she was rushed to the hospital, Vanajakshi reportedly identified her attacker and expressed that she had been facing harassment from him over her desire for independence. Initially treated at Victoria Hospital, she was later transferred to St. John’s, where she ultimately died from her injuries.
The case reflects a complex and tumultuous history involving Vanajakshi’s relationships. After the death of her first husband, Madhu, who was significantly older, she entered into a live-in relationship with Vittal. In recent years, Vanajakshi had forged a bond with Muniyappa, a businessman, which authorities believe may have fueled Vittal’s anger and obsession.
Local officials are currently investigating the nature of all three relationships to better understand the motivations behind Vittal’s actions. A senior police officer characterized the attack as driven by “obsession and anger,” emphasizing the serious implications of domestic violence and harassment in such cases.
The shocking nature of the crime has reverberated throughout the community, leaving many residents stunned as they grapple with what they witnessed. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the grave dangers that can stem from toxic relationships and unresolved conflicts, urging a widespread discussion on the necessity of addressing such issues with greater urgency.