Agartala, January 27, 2025: The gruesome death of Haimanti Singha Barman, a teacher and housewife, who succumbed to severe burn injuries at GBP Hospital at Thakur Para in Melaghar under Sepahijala district on December 20, 2024. Allegedly set ablaze by her husband Mrinal Kanti Barman and his family, Haimanti’s case has now drawn the intervention of the Tripura Commission for Women.
The Chairperson of the Tripura Commission for Women (TCW) Jharna Debbarma along with member Ratna Debnath Kar and Councillor Manna Saha held a crucial meeting with Superintendent of Police of the Sepahijala district Bogaty J. Reddy (IPS). The delegation demanded the immediate arrest and stringent punishment of the accused. “The safety and dignity of women must be upheld. We will not rest until justice is served for Haimanti,” asserted Debbarma.
The Commission also addressed broader issues, including the prevention of child marriage and domestic violence in the district. “We’ve decided to collaborate on a comprehensive program to tackle these social evils,” said SP Reddy, emphasizing the need for a united front to address systemic challenges.
Haimanti, who suffered 90% burns, reportedly identified her husband and other family members as the perpetrators in her dying declaration. “My husband set me on fire,” she stated, implicating her mother-in-law, brother-in-law, and sister-in-law in the crime. Despite this testimony, no arrests have been made, prompting public outrage.
The family of the deceased has accused the police of delaying justice. “It’s been over a month, and the accused are still roaming free. Instead of action, we’re being asked for bribes,” alleged Haimanti’s sister, voicing her anguish.
In response, Officer-in-Charge of Melaghar Police Station Debasish Saha said, “We are actively investigating the case. The accused are absconding, but we are determined to bring them to justice. Allegations of extortion are baseless and unfounded.”
The delay in arrests has sparked widespread criticism of law enforcement. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” said a neighbor of the victim, reflecting the growing discontent among locals. Many have rallied behind the family, demanding swift action against the accused.
As pressure mounts on authorities, the case has become a grim reminder of the urgent need for reforms in handling crimes against women. The Tripura Women’s Commission has vowed to monitor the investigation closely, ensuring that justice for Haimanti is neither delayed nor denied.
