Woman ‘set on fire’ by in-laws dies in hospital

LAHORE:A 28-year-old woman who was allegedly set on fire by her in-laws in Mustafa Town died after five days of treatment in hospital. Body was handed over to her family.

According to police officials, Mehwish had lodged a formal complaint at Mustafa Town Police Station prior to her death, in which she stated that her husband Shahid, brother-in-law Suhail, and Suhail's wife Samreen had set her on fire during a domestic dispute. The incident took place at her residence in Mustafa Town earlier this week. Emergency responders rushed Mehwish to the hospital, where she remained in critical condition for several days. Despite efforts by doctors to save her life, she died.

Following her statement and subsequent death, police registered a case under Section 302 of the Pakistan Penal Code (murder). A senior police official said that raids were being conducted to arrest the three suspects.

‘We are treating this as a clear case of domestic violence leading to murder, and are doing everything to arrest the culprits,’ said a police officer. The incident has sparked outrage among local residents and women's rights activists, who have demanded justice.

Neighbours of the victim described her as a quiet and respectful woman. She rarely spoke of her problems, said a neighbour who requested anonymity. This case adds to the growing list of domestic abuse incidents reported in Lahore in recent months. Law enforcement authorities have faced criticism for delayed action in such cases, with families of victims often alleging negligence or pressure from influential individuals.