Indian Man Sentenced to Death for Wife's Murder Over Skin Colour
A court in India handed a man the death penalty for burning his wife alive over her dark skin, labeling the crime 'rarest of the rare' and a 'crime against humanity'.
Death Sentence for 'Crime Against Humanity'
This article contains distressing details.
Background
In June 2017, Lakshmi, barely 20, was repeatedly taunted by her husband Kishandas for her dark skin after their 2016 marriage. She reported the abuse to police, doctors and an executive magistrate before her death.
Court's Judgment
District Judge Rahul Choudhary in Udaipur described the murder as "rarest of the rare" and a "crime against humanity". He sentenced Kishandas to death after finding he doused Lakshmi with a brown liquid—misrepresented as skin lightening medicine—and set her on fire with an incense stick. When she struggled, he poured more liquid on her before fleeing. Lakshmi later died at the hospital.
Implications
Prosecutor Dinesh Paliwal called the ruling "historic", hoping it would deter similar offences. He has sent the verdict to the high court for confirmation. The convict has 30 days to appeal.
Lawyer Surendra Kumar Menariya maintains that Lakshmi's death was accidental and plans to appeal, asserting there is no evidence against his client.
Societal Impact
The case has reignited debate over colourism in India, where fair skin remains highly prized. Campaigners say discriminatory attitudes fuel a multi-billion dollar skin-lightening industry and continue to harm women across the country.
This brutal killing underscores the deadly impact of colourism in India and marks a landmark ruling against such crimes.
This topic was reported by BBC News.
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