Petrocina Fernandes from Nuvem, accused of subjecting her daughter-in-law Samantha Fernandes to harassment and dowry demands, resulting in Samantha's tragic self-immolation, has been granted anticipatory bail today. The court approved her release on a personal bond of Rs 50,000 and mandated the surrender of her passport.
The arrest of Fernandes stemmed from allegations of harassing and subjecting Samantha, aged 30, to cruelty and dowry demands, which allegedly led to Samantha setting herself ablaze at their residence on August 29, eventually succumbing to her injuries on August 30.
PSI Praful Giri registered the offense on November 30 under Sections 304-B of the IPC, following a judgment in the court of the Deputy Collector and SDM Salcete against Patorciana Fernandes. The deceased's mother alleged that Samantha committed suicide due to continuous harassment by her mother-in-law, leading her to refuse acceptance of her daughter's body.
Maina Curtorim police vehemently opposed Fernandes' anticipatory bail application, emphasizing her necessity for the ongoing investigation.