Pilibhit Woman Abandons Canadian Studies to Pursue Justice in Alleged Bigamy Case
A 25-year-old woman from Pilibhit has made a dramatic return from Canada, discontinuing her higher education to lodge a formal police complaint against her husband. The complaint alleges that her spouse married another woman last year while divorce proceedings were still pending, sparking a significant legal case in the region.
Marriage and Dowry Allegations
Sandeep Kaur, a resident of Dhakiya Jalalpur village, detailed her marriage to Gurpinder Singh, a 26-year-old farmer from Sherpur Makrandpur village, which took place on December 13, 2021. According to Sandeep, her father, Jaspal Singh, provided a substantial dowry that included 190 grams of gold jewellery, Rs 5 lakh in cash, a car, and various household and electronic items.
Harassment and Escape to Canada
Despite the dowry, Sandeep claims she faced severe physical and mental harassment from her husband and in-laws. They allegedly demanded an SUV and an additional Rs 10 lakh in cash shortly after the marriage. In an attempt to alleviate the situation, Sandeep's father sent her to Canada in 2022 to pursue higher studies, hoping the distance would bring peace.
Revelations and Legal Actions
Jaspal Singh later discovered that his son-in-law had been deported from Australia in early 2021 for allegedly creating disturbances under the influence of alcohol and repeatedly violating local laws. Sandeep reported that her husband filed a divorce petition under section 13 of the Hindu Marriage Act in the Pilibhit family court just before marrying Kulvinder Kaur of Bhagwantapur village in October 2025. Sandeep only recently learned of this second marriage.
She added that the second marriage was arranged by Kulvinder's relatives, Germanjit Singh and Baljeet Kaur of Madopur Itauria village, despite all parties being aware that the divorce case was still pending. In response, Sandeep filed a complaint at Kareli police station on Tuesday night.
Police Charges and Legal Framework
SHO Vipin Shukla confirmed that 10 individuals have been charged under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The charges include section 85 for cruelty by husband or relatives, section 82(1) for bigamy, and section 115(2) for voluntarily causing hurt, along with violations under the Dowry Prohibition Act. This case highlights the ongoing issues of dowry harassment and bigamy in certain communities, underscoring the legal protections available to victims.
The incident has drawn attention to the challenges faced by women in similar situations, emphasizing the importance of legal recourse and support systems. Sandeep's decision to return from Canada and pursue justice demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing these injustices, potentially inspiring others in comparable circumstances.
