Couple Ends Lives in Car Over Parental Objection to Marriage

A tragic incident unfolded in the jurisdiction of Ghatkesar Police Station, Medchal-Malkajgiri district, where a young couple ended their lives by setting fire to themselves inside a car after pouring petrol. The couple reportedly took this extreme step due to pressure from various sides, including objections from family members citing caste differences and fears over acceptance of their marriage. Additionally, the girl was underage, and a relative had been blackmailing them for money, adding to their distress.

According to the police, 25-year-old Sriramulu from Jamilapet village, Bibinagar mandal, and a 17-year-old girl from Narapalli, Ghatkesar mandal, had been in a relationship for several years. When the girl’s family became aware of their relationship, frequent quarrels ensued, and she was repeatedly scolded and even physically assaulted. Despite the opposition, the couple continued to stay in touch. Matters escalated when a relative named Chintu learned about their relationship and started blackmailing them. He extorted INR 1.35 lakh from Sriramulu and continued to demand more money.

Feeling that their marriage would never be accepted by their families and unable to bear the increasing pressure, the couple decided to take their own lives. On the evening prior to the incident, Sriramulu rented a self-drive car. Together, they drove to an Outer Ring Road service road under Ghatkesar Police Station limits. After parking the car by the roadside, they poured petrol over themselves and set themselves on fire.

Unable to endure the flames, Sriramulu stepped out of the burning car, screaming in pain, before collapsing and succumbing to his injuries. Meanwhile, the girl was completely charred inside the vehicle. By the time the fire brigade reached the location after being alerted, the car was entirely gutted.

Sriramulu’s parents, grieving at the loss, revealed that their son had informed them about his relationship a few days ago. Just minutes before the incident, he reportedly sent them a suicide note. The police have registered a case and initiated an investigation.