GWALIOR, MADHYA PRADESH, INDIA – JUNE 13, 2025 Twenty-four-year-old Ajay Kushwaha went to resolve his relationship issues with his girlfriend at the house where she lived with her parents. Unfortunately, he was rejected because he didn’t have enough money to meet the dowry demand set by her parents. They were asking for 500,000 INR (approximately 5,850 USD).
Ajay resorted to a desperate act of protest – he poured gasoline over himself and set himself on fire in front of her house. Before he could be extinguished, he suffered burns over 75% of his body. He was taken to the hospital, where, after a two-day fight for his life, he passed away on June 15.
He told hospital staff that both his girlfriend and her parents and brother had emotionally blackmailed him. The public prosecutor is considering charging the entire family with extortion leading to death. However, none of them have been taken into custody so far.
If you’re thinking about suicide, please stop and recognize that your pain is not permanent, but this step would be. It may feel like there’s no other way, but there is hope, even if it’s hard to see right now. Your feelings are temporary, and with help, they can pass.
Talking about what you're going through might feel difficult, but it’s the first step toward healing. Don’t turn away from the people who want to support you. Life can offer more than what you're feeling right now, and the pain doesn't have to last forever. You deserve help, and it’s available.
If you need immediate help, please contact a helpline.
