Daijiworld Media Network - Cooch Behar

Cooch Behar, Mar 12: A 35-year-old nurse died after she was allegedly set on fire by her husband following a dispute over car loan payments in West Bengal’s Cooch Behar district, police said on Thursday.

The victim, identified as Chhanda Roy, worked in the maternity department of MJN Medical College and Hospital. The incident took place at her rented residence on Wednesday night.

According to neighbours, Chhanda ran out of the house engulfed in flames, creating panic in the locality. Local residents rushed her to the hospital where doctors declared her dead on arrival.

Police said the victim had been living in the rented apartment for the past three-and-a-half years with her husband Ranjit Roy, who works as a driver.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the couple frequently argued over the repayment of Equated Monthly Instalments (EMI) for a car. According to police sources, the vehicle had been purchased so that Ranjit could use it to earn a livelihood in Siliguri.

However, disputes over loan repayments reportedly led to repeated quarrels between the couple.

“The incident appears to be the result of a severe domestic feud. We are investigating all angles, including the possibility of foul play,” a police official said.

Police also revealed that the couple’s disputes had earlier reached the women’s police station, though no formal complaint had been registered at the time.

Ranjit Roy also suffered burn injuries in the incident and is currently undergoing treatment at the same hospital. Police said he is under surveillance and his statement will be recorded once his condition stabilises.

The body has been sent for post-mortem examination and a detailed investigation has been launched to determine whether the case involves murder or suicide.

Police added that the couple’s only daughter studies at a boarding school in Darjeeling.