Phagwara doctor dies in England house fire; father alleges foul play

PHAGWARA, November 5 (Nazrana Times): Dr Shivani, originally from Phagwara, died in a house fire in England that also left her husband critically injured. Her father has alleged foul play and called for an impartial investigation. Her husband’s family has rejected the allegations, describing the fire as an accident.

Husband receiving treatment in Birmingham

According to media reports, neighbours alerted emergency services after noticing smoke coming from the house. Firefighters and rescue personnel brought the couple outside, but Dr Shivani could not be saved.

Her husband, Kartikeya, was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. Reports described his condition as critical and said he was receiving ventilator support.

Father alleges domestic abuse and conspiracy

Dr Shivani’s father, Dr A.K. Verma, has rejected the suggestion that the incident was merely an accident. He alleged that his daughter had experienced psychological distress and domestic abuse following her marriage in 2023. These allegations have not been independently verified.

The family has appealed to India’s Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom for assistance in securing a thorough and impartial investigation. They want the circumstances surrounding the fire and Dr Shivani’s death to be examined.

Husband’s family denies allegations

Kartikeya’s family has denied allegations of domestic abuse and conspiracy. They maintain that the couple had a harmonious relationship and suggest the fire may have resulted from a faulty heater or an electrical malfunction. The cause of the fire remains subject to investigation.

Investigation findings awaited

According to the supplied report, British police and forensic specialists are examining the circumstances of the fire, including the house’s electrical system, wiring, heater, other appliances and evidence recovered from the scene.

Dr Shivani’s family is awaiting the completion of the legal and administrative procedures required to bring her body to India. A final determination of the circumstances and cause of her death has not yet been reported.