Woman dies by suicide in Pachhad; husband held

A tragic case of alleged domestic abuse and suicide has come to light in the Pachhad police station jurisdiction, where a 26-year-old married woman, Monika, reportedly consumed a poisonous substance, resulting in her death. Acting on a complaint from her father, police have arrested Monika’s husband, mother-in-law and sister-in-law on charges of abetment to suicide and domestic harassment.

Monika, a resident of Dharoti village in Pachhad tehsil and wife of Madan Singh, fell critically ill after consuming poison on April 19. She was first rushed to Sarahan Hospital and later referred to Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar Government Medical College in Nahan due to her worsening condition. Sadly, she died en route.

Following the post-mortem examination, Monika’s body was handed over to her family. The case took a serious turn when her father, Ranveer Singh of Shekhra Baghar village near Bagthan, submitted a detailed written complaint to Pachhad police, alleging systematic abuse and harassment that drove his daughter to suicide.

Ranveer Singh alleged that Monika was subjected to sustained emotional and physical abuse by her husband Madan Singh, his mother Neema Devi and sister Anjana Devi. According to the complaint, the family was not even informed by Monika’s in-laws when her condition deteriorated or after her death.

Singh recounted a disturbing pattern of threats and violence. He claimed Madan often threatened Monika, saying he would take his own life if her parental family did not apologise to him. He also accused Madan of violent behaviour, including breaking household items and physically assaulting Monika with a whip.

Despite being aware of the abuse, Singh said the family respected Monika’s decision to remain with her in-laws for the sake of her children. However, due to ongoing torment, she returned to her parental home on March 26. Madan later visited to persuade her to come back—a visit that Singh believes may have led to the final breakdown.

Sirmaur Superintendent of Police Nishchint Singh Negi confirmed the registration of a case under relevant sections at the Pachhad police station. He said Monika’s husband, mother-in-law and sister-in-law have been arrested and a thorough investigation is underway.

Himachal Tribune