A 17-year-old girl was burnt alive by a 21-year-old stalker on Monday morning in Nandikotkur town, Andhra Pradesh. The police say the girl had rejected his sexual advances.
Attack Details
The accused, a man from Kalugotla village, approached the girl’s house. He knocked on her door, which was next to her grandmother’s bedroom. When she opened the door, he forced his way in, locked the door, and poured petrol on her. He then set her on fire.
Victim’s Background
The victim was a Class 12 student from Samarlakota. She had moved to her grandmother’s house in Byreddy Nagar Colony six months ago to escape the harassment. “The accused claimed to be in love with her, but she had rejected him. Her parents also advised her to avoid him. She moved to her grandmother’s house to focus on her studies, but he continued to stalk her,” a police officer said.
Granny’s Plea
Around 1 am, the girl’s grandmother heard her screams. She knocked on the door, begging the accused to open it. However, the door was only opened after the girl was completely burnt.
Accused Arrested
The accused also suffered burn injuries. He tried to flee but was caught by neighbors and handed over to the police. He has been charged with murder and will appear in court.
Authorities’ Response
State home minister Vangalapudi Anith expressed deep distress. “I have instructed the Nandyal district superintendent of police, Adhirraj Singh Rana, to fast-track the investigation and take strict action against the accused,” he said.
