Daijiworld Media Network - Buxar

Buxar, Feb 25: A wedding ceremony in Bihar’s Buxar district turned tragic after an 18-year-old bride was allegedly shot at while standing on the stage beside the groom late Tuesday night.

The incident took place under the limits of Chausa police station. The victim, identified as Aarti Kumari, was allegedly shot by her neighbour Deenbandhu. Police said a prima facie investigation suggests a possible “love affair” angle in the case.

According to Chausa Additional SHO Chandan Kumar, the bride was shot in the stomach while she was on the wedding stage during rituals. Family members have alleged that the accused was in “one-sided love” with Kumari and had earlier objected to her marriage.

Soon after the shooting, family members and locals rushed her to Sadar Hospital in Buxar. As her condition was critical, doctors referred her to Varanasi for advanced treatment.

Eyewitnesses said that before the incident, the bride and groom were surrounded by relatives and guests on the stage. During a ritual, when a female family member turned towards the bride to apply vermillion, a man from among the gathering allegedly fired at Kumari. Chaos broke out at the venue, with guests running for safety while others tried to keep the injured bride conscious.

Police said the accused fled the scene immediately after the firing. Raids are currently underway to nab the suspect.

The groom’s family had arrived in Buxar from Sulemanpur village in Uttar Pradesh’s Ballia district for the wedding ceremony.