AGARTALA: The family members of deceased teacher Haimanti Singha Barman, including her two children, approached the Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) on Friday, demanding a thorough investigation into her alleged murder and the immediate arrest of her husband, Mrinal Kanti Barman.
Haimanti of Melaghar, a well-known teacher of the locality who was burnt with severe injuries succumbed to those injuries at GBP Hospital on 20 December, 2024. Her husband, Mrinal Kanti Barman, another teacher, had set her ablaze with the help of her family members, according to charges. According to the deceased’s children and sister, Haimanti’s in-laws conspired and executed the heinous crime, prompting them to file a case against four individuals.
However, police have arrested only one person so far, leaving the prime accused, Mrinal Kanti Barman, still at large. Not satisfied with the way the police in Melaghar handled the case, Haimanti's family, accompanied by her teenage daughter and infant son, went to the THRC in their fight for justice.
"Over a month has passed, but the prime accused still walks free. Instead of taking action against them, we are being demanded bribes," Haimanti's sister claimed, airing frustration over police inaction.
Their complaint has also been raised by the Tripura Commission for Women (TCW). On 27 January, Chairperson Jharna Debbarma, member Ratna Debnath Kar, and Councillor Manna Saha met Sepahijala District Superintendent of Police (SP) Bogaty J. Reddy (IPS) and sought the arrest of the accused at the earliest and strict punishment.
Haimanti, who had suffered 90% burns, was said to have given a dying declaration in which she had named the husband and family members as assailants. "My husband set me on fire," she had declared, implicating her mother-in-law, brother-in-law, and sister-in-law in the crime. No further arrests were made by the authorities as of yet, which has built up public outcry and demands for immediate action.
The dignity and safety of women must be safeguarded. There will be no rest till justice is mete for Haimanti," vowed TCW Chairperson Jharna Debbarma.
More than this case, the Commission has highlighted broader grievances regarding domestic violence and child marriage within the district. "We have decided to join hands to develop a comprehensive program that will face these social evils," said SP Reddy, arguing systemic issues require everyone to chip in.
The delay in arresting the accused has caused widespread anger among locals. A neighbor of the victim voiced the growing discontent, saying, "Justice delayed is justice denied. The authorities need to act swiftly before public anger escalates further.
Meanwhile, Officer-in-Charge of Melaghar Police Station Debasish Saha said: "We are actively investigating. The accused are absconding, but we are determined to bring them to justice. The allegations of extortion are baseless
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