Uttarakhand minister accuses husband of fraudulent marriage, assault and endangering life

Uttarakhand Minister for Women Empowerment and Child Development Rekha Arya on Thursday (October 15, 2026) filed a first information report against her husband Girdhari Lal Sahu, accusing him of concealing her previous marriage, having an extra-marital affair, assaulting her and threatening to kill her.

Ms Arya, who belongs to the Scheduled Caste community, said in her police complaint that she had married Mr Sahu, a resident of Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh, in July 2004. She later found out that he was previously married and had children.

“My family told me to consider the future of my own children when I learned that he was already married and decided to act,” Ms Arya said.

The minister claimed that Mr. Sahu first admitted his mistake and apologized, but his behavior did not change. Ms. Arya alleged that she was subjected to physical assault, verbal abuse and threats to her life.

“He abused me and used caste slurs in front of my staff at my official headquarters. He also tried to remove me from directorships in certain companies using my forged signatures,” Ms Arya said.

The minister also claimed that she had recently obtained an audio recording of her husband which allegedly contained his conversation with the woman in which the two planned to kill her. The complaint also raised concerns about the safety of Ms. Arya and her minor children.

Dehradun Superintendent of Police Shekhar Suyal said a case has been registered against Mr. Sahu under sections of intimidation, forgery, cheating, SC/ST Act, among others.

“Further investigation is underway,” he added.

Published – 16 Oct 2026 02:40 IST