New Delhi: Celebrations turned into mourning after a bride was shot allegedly by her lover during the wedding ceremony. The incident took place in Bihar’s Buxar on Tuesday night. The shooter has been identified as Deenbandhu, a neighbour.
What exactly happened
Aarti Kumari, 18, was on stage with the groom, when the shot was fired. The bride and groom were flanked by their friends and family members. One of Aarti’s relative was performing a ritual on the stage, putting vermillion on her brother-in-law’s forehead. As she turned towards Aarti to do the same, a man from among the guests standing in front of the stage fired at the bride.
Aarti was shot in the stomach, an area near her navel. There was total melee at the site, as people panicked, screamed and ran out. Some tried to keep Aarti conscious as she collapsed.
Aarti was taken immediately to a nearby Sadar Hospital. She was administered first aid. She was referred to Varanasi Trauma Centre. Aarti is battling for her life, and is in a critical condition.
Police said the incident took place around 11 pm on Tuesday.
The wedding procession had arrived from Uttar Pradesh’s Ballia district. It returned soon after the incident.
Why was she shot
According to locals, it was a suspected love affair that’s behind the shooting incident. The suspect Deenbandhu is at large. Police are questioning the accused’s parents and have detained them.
Police said that Deenbandhu has been in jail in the past in connection with a liquor case. They are carrying out raids to hunt for him and take him into custody.