Bride Critically Injured in Shooting During Wedding Ceremony in Bihar
A wedding ceremony in Bihar's Buxar district turned into a scene of horror and chaos when a bride was shot on stage during the traditional 'Jaimala' ritual. The incident occurred on the night of Tuesday, February 24, 2026, in the Chausa Nagar Panchayat area under the jurisdiction of the Mufassil police station.
Details of the Attack
The victim, identified as 23-year-old Aarti Kumari, daughter of Nandiji Chaudhary, was exchanging garlands with her groom, 23-year-old Avinash, when a young man suddenly approached the stage and fired a shot at close range. The bullet struck Aarti in the abdomen, causing her to collapse immediately. The assailant then fled the venue, disappearing into the night amidst the ensuing panic.
Initial reports from family members describe a moment of confusion, with some mistaking the gunshot for celebratory firecrackers. "We thought it was part of the celebration. I had gone home. Suddenly, we saw sparks near the stage. We thought people were bursting firecrackers. But when we reached there, Aarti had been shot and the groom was carrying her to take her to the hospital," a relative recounted.
Victim's Condition and Police Response
Aarti was rushed to a local private hospital in critical condition. Due to the severity of her injuries, she was later referred to a medical facility in Varanasi for advanced treatment. Her current status remains critical, according to hospital sources.
Buxar Superintendent of Police Shubham Arya has taken personal charge of the investigation. A special police team has been formed to track down the shooter, with efforts focused on gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. Unconfirmed reports suggest the gunman is 22-year-old Dinbandhu, described as Aarti's ex-boyfriend. It is alleged that Aarti named him after the shooting, though police have not officially confirmed his identity or motive.
Background and Ongoing Investigation
The wedding procession had arrived from Ballia district in neighboring Uttar Pradesh, highlighting the cross-border nature of the event. The attack has shocked the local community, raising concerns about public safety during large gatherings.
Authorities are examining all angles, including possible personal disputes, as the investigation continues. SP Shubham Arya emphasized that the police are committed to apprehending the perpetrator swiftly and ensuring justice for the victim and her family.
