A wedding celebration in Bihar’s Buxar district turned into a scene of horror late Tuesday night when an 18-year-old bride was allegedly shot by her neighbour during the ceremony. The shocking incident, which was captured on camera, has left the young woman battling for her life and the accused on the run.
Aarti Kumari was standing on the decorated stage beside her groom as relatives and friends gathered around for the traditional rituals. The atmosphere was festive. Family members were smiling, music was playing, and guests were recording the ceremony on their phones. In a matter of seconds, that joy turned into chaos.
Eyewitnesses said a young girl, believed to be Aarti’s sister, was performing a customary ritual by applying vermillion on the groom’s forehead. She then turned toward Aarti to repeat the ritual. At that very moment, a man from the crowd standing in front of the stage pulled out a gun and fired at the bride.
The bullet struck Aarti in the stomach, near her navel. Panic spread instantly. Guests screamed and rushed toward the stage. Some tried to hold Aarti and keep her conscious, while others ran out of the venue in fear. The music stopped. The celebration froze in shock.
Family members immediately took her to the Sadar Hospital in Buxar. Doctors provided first aid but, considering the seriousness of the injury, referred her to the Trauma Centre in Varanasi for advanced treatment. Hospital sources said she remains in critical condition and is under close medical supervision.
Police identified the accused as Deenbandhu, a neighbour of the bride. Locals suspect the attack may be linked to a past love affair, though officials have not confirmed the exact motive yet. Additional Station House Officer Chandan Kumar said the accused has a criminal background and had previously been jailed in a liquor-related case.
After opening fire, the accused fled the scene. Police have detained his parents for questioning and launched raids in multiple locations to trace him. Authorities are also examining video footage from the wedding to strengthen the investigation.
The groom’s procession had arrived from Ballia district in Uttar Pradesh. Following the shooting, the wedding was called off. The baraat returned without the marriage taking place, leaving both families devastated and in disbelief.
Residents of the area described the incident as shocking and unprecedented. What was meant to be a new beginning for two families ended in tragedy within moments.
Police say they are committed to arresting the accused at the earliest and ensuring strict action. Meanwhile, the focus remains on Aarti’s recovery as her family keeps vigil outside the hospital, hoping for a miracle.
Summary – Key Highlights:
An 18-year-old bride was shot during her wedding ceremony in Buxar, Bihar. The bullet hit her in the stomach, and she is currently in critical condition at a Varanasi trauma centre. The accused, identified as her neighbour Deenbandhu, is absconding. Police suspect a love affair angle and are conducting raids to arrest him.