In recent times, the headlines have painted a disturbing picture of marriage. Cases where one partner turns violent, be it because of affairs, betrayal, or personal conflicts, have become alarmingly frequent. What should be a bond of care is far too often ending in cruelty, even death. In yet another tragic instance, a woman has reportedly lost her life at the hands of the very person who vowed to protect her — her husband.
Athulya Sekhar was found dead in her apartment
Athulya Sekhar, a 29-year-old woman who was originally from Kollam, Kerala, was found dead in her flat in the Rolla area of Sharjah in United Arab Emirates (UAE) on July 20, 2025, by her sister and brother-in-law, who also reside in the same area. The circumstances that led to her death have sparked anger and heartbreak across communities in India and the UAE alike.
Athulya Sekhar faced years of abuse and dowry demands
According to Athulya’s family, she had been facing severe harassment from her husband, Satheesh, for not bringing enough dowry. The family claims they had already given 43 sovereigns of gold and a bike during the couple’s marriage in 2014; however, her in-laws allegedly continued to demand more. This greed of Athulya’s in-laws and her husband allegedly led her to lose her life at his hands.
Athulya Sekhar’s parents have accused her husband, Satheesh, of physical assault on her
Athulya’s mother, Thulasibai has reportedly accused Satheesh of violently assaulting her daughter between July 18-19, 2025. She claimed that Satheesh kicked her daughter, Athulya, in the stomach, choked her, and struck her with a plate. All this violence caused her major injuries and is believed to be the reason that led to her untimely death.
Athulya Sekhar’s family demands investigation
Athulya’s father, Rajashekharan, insists that his daughter would not have died by suicide, and shut down any report that suggested the same. He cited that Athulya had a strong bond with her 10-year-old daughter and would never leave the child behind. Athulya’s family even released some disturbing videos showing past abuse she had endured and called for a full investigation by both Indian and UAE authorities. He could be quoted as saying:
“I don’t believe that my daughter will die by suicide. She shares a very intimate relationship with her daughter. Her death is mysterious. We have to find out what exactly happened to her. He is an alcoholic. He always gets violent. She bore all the torture for her. Earlier also, such issues had happened and a case was filed with the police. We want to know what exactly happened to her.”
Athulya Sekhar’s husband Satheesh denies any involvement
Speaking to the media, Satheesh has denied all the allegations and claimed that he too wanted answers regarding his wife’s demise. Despite his denial, a murder case has been filed under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Dowry Prohibition Act, against him in Kerala based on Athulya’s family’s complaint.
Athulya Sekhar is one of the many recent dowry-related deaths
Athulya’s case is not the only one that has made headlines. It follows another shocking incident that occurred earlier this month where Vipanchika Maniyan, also from Kerala, was found dead with her one-year-old daughter. Her family also blamed her husband and in-laws for ongoing dowry and emotional abuse.
All these tragedies reflect a disturbing pattern of violence linked to dowry demands, which are prevalent both in India and abroad. Families and women’s rights groups are now urging authorities to ensure strict action and justice for all the victims.
If you or someone you know is facing domestic abuse or dowry harassment, click here for help.
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