Twist in Noida Dowry Case: Nikki Bhati’s Sister-in-Law Accuses Victim’s Family of Harassment

In a stunning twist to the Greater Noida dowry death case that has gripped national attention, the victim’s sister-in-law has come forward with allegations of dowry harassment against Nikki Bhati’s own family. Minakshi, the estranged wife of Nikki’s brother Rohit Payla, has claimed that she endured similar demands and mistreatment, flipping the narrative on a tragedy that initially pointed solely to Nikki’s in-laws.

Minakshi, 31, from Palla village, married Rohit in 2016. According to her, her family provided a Maruti Suzuki Ciaz as part of the dowry, but it was sold by her in-laws, who deemed it “inauspicious.” This was followed by demands for a new Scorpio SUV and cash, she alleged. When these were refused, Minakshi claimed she was sent back to her parents’ home, and the family never accepted her.

The matter escalated to a village panchayat, which reportedly suggested that Rohit’s family either return ₹35 lakh—the amount spent on the wedding—for Minakshi to remarry or accept her back as their daughter-in-law. The dispute remains unresolved, with Minakshi accusing Nikki’s father, Bhikhari Singh Payla, and other family members of rejecting her outright.

This revelation adds a complex layer to the investigation into Nikki’s death, highlighting deep-seated dowry disputes within both families. Nikki’s father was reportedly a close friend of her father-in-law, Satbir Singh, which facilitated the marriages of both his daughters into the same family. Satbir had even intervened in Minakshi’s case, urging Payla to resolve the issue.

The allegations come amid an ongoing probe into Nikki’s horrific death last week. The 26-year-old was allegedly tortured and set ablaze by her husband, Vipin Bhati, and in-laws over dowry demands, succumbing to her injuries en route to a Delhi hospital.

A viral video captured her staggering down stairs while on fire, witnessed by her seven-year-old son and sister. Nikki’s family had claimed years of harassment, including demands for a luxury car and ₹36 lakh, despite earlier gifts like a Scorpio SUV and motorcycle.

These counter-allegations underscore the pervasive and illegal practice of dowry in India, raising questions about accountability on all sides as police continue their investigation.