Subhash Mahajan
Chamba’s popular tourist destination Khajjiar witnessed chaos late Tuesday night when a Creta car parked inside a private hotel’s premises was allegedly set on fire. The vehicle, reportedly given as dowry, became the center of a heated dispute between a newlywed couple from Ludhiana.
According to initial reports, the argument escalated when the husband allegedly poured a flammable substance on the car and ignited it. Within moments, flames engulfed the vehicle, sending hotel staff and guests rushing to the parking area. The blaze reduced the car to ashes, though fortunately no other vehicles were present nearby, preventing further damage.
Police officials confirmed that the couple was staying at the hotel along with relatives. Witnesses stated that the quarrel over the dowry car triggered the incident. The husband fled the scene immediately after the fire broke out, while police began questioning the wife and family members to ascertain the sequence of events.
The incident sparked panic among guests, with the hotel premises echoing with confusion and alarm until the fire subsided. Authorities have launched a probe into all aspects of the case, including the domestic dispute, the alleged arson, and the suspect’s disappearance. The investigation will determine the exact cause and circumstances behind the shocking act.
Khajjiar remained abuzz throughout the day as locals and tourists discussed the incident, highlighting once again the disturbing link between dowry disputes and domestic violence.
