In Belagavi, Karnataka, the death of 20-year-old Sakshi Kambar who was allegedly murdered by her husband, Akash Kambar, just four months after their wedding. It is suspected to be a dowry murder. According to police sources, Akash killed Sakshi approximately three days before her body was discovered, having concealed her remains under their bed before absconding.
According to a report by NDTV, the crime was only uncovered when Akash’s mother, returned from her native village and on entering the home, leading to the heartbreaking discovery of Sakshi’s body and the urgent alerting of local police.
A case has since been registered at Kakti Police Station, and law enforcement has launched a manhunt for Akash, whose phone remains switched off and whereabouts unknown. Akash and Sakshi got married four months ago.
Dowry Allegations and Police Response
Sakshi’s family has brought forward allegations of dowry harassment, citing persistent and increasing abuse from Akash and his relatives as a possible motive behind the tragedy. Police have incorporated these allegations into their ongoing investigation, which now covers both the suspected murder and broader questions surrounding domestic abuse and dowry demands.
Senior police officials have assured the public that all angles are being rigorously probed, and forensic teams have already been deployed to collect evidence from the scene. The crime has prompted local residents and women’s rights advocates to demand strict and swift action, underscoring the pervasive danger of dowry-related violence across Indian society.
Rising Tide of Dowry Deaths in India
This case is part of a disturbing national pattern. Data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) shows a 14% increase in dowry-related offences in 2023, rising to 15,489 reported cases and over 6,100 confirmed dowry deaths last year.
Karnataka ranks third in the country for dowry cases, trailing only Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Similar atrocities have been reported across India; only days before Sakshi’s murder came to light, a pregnant woman was allegedly beaten to death in Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh, over dowry disputes.
Other recent cases have included fatal abuse and suicides attributed to relentless dowry demands, drawing renewed focus to the urgent need for comprehensive social reform and legal enforcement.
Societal Response and Calls for Reform
The shocking case from Belagavi has brought immediate reactions from women’s rights organisations, legal experts, and ordinary citizens who are all demanding more robust implementation of existing laws against dowry harassment and domestic violence.
Activists highlight the urgent need for dedicated helplines, improved police responsiveness, and increased community awareness so that victims can access help before tragedy occurs. Experts argue that sensitisation programmes targeting young couples and families could play a key role in changing social attitudes around marriage, dowry, and gender roles.
By fostering environments where vulnerable individuals feel safe to speak out and seek support, there is hope that future acts of violence can be stopped before lives are lost.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The tragedy in Belagavi is a poignant reminder of the insidious dangers posed by dowry expectations and domestic violence.
While swift police action and transparent legal proceedings are vital, long-term change depends on communities breaking the silence, offering support to vulnerable individuals, and confronting deep-rooted traditions with empathy, education, and zero tolerance for abuse.
