Henna Artist Dies, Four Injured in Lucknow Car Crash; Husband Alleges Attempted Assault Led to Accident
Lucknow — A 30-year-old woman, who worked as a henna artist, lost her life, and four others — including her 17-year-old cousin and three men — were injured when their car overturned on the outskirts of Lucknow late Thursday night.
The incident took a serious turn when the woman’s husband accused the three men, all of whom were acquaintances of the couple, of attempting to sexually assault his wife moments before the crash.
He alleged that during the assault, his wife tried to call a relative for help, which led to a scuffle inside the moving vehicle. This altercation, he claims, caused the driver to lose control, resulting in the car overturning.
Initial reports from the police suggest that the group was en route to a wedding-related function — a haldi ceremony — at the home of one of the men involved.
The woman had been hired to apply henna for the occasion. According to early statements, the crash was initially believed to have been triggered when a stray dog suddenly crossed their path.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Nipun Agarwal stated that a preliminary inquiry indicated the woman had willingly accompanied the men to the event. However, the allegations raised by her husband have prompted a deeper investigation.
The DCP confirmed that the victim’s postmortem report revealed her death was caused by severe spinal injuries sustained before the crash, and that no signs of sexual assault or injuries from sharp objects were found on her body.
The autopsy was carried out by a panel of four doctors, and the entire process was documented on video for transparency.
Despite the lack of physical evidence pointing to assault, police have registered an FIR against the three men, charging them under multiple sections, including rash and negligent driving, sexual harassment, and criminal intimidation.
So far, no formal arrests have been made, but two of the accused have been detained for questioning as investigations continue.
