In a horrifying turn of events, a couple who eloped in 2021 met a gruesome end, along with their two-year-old daughter, as they were en route to their new residence in Bihar’s Naugachhia village.
The victims, identified as Chandan Kumar, 23, and Chandni Kumari, 21, had married after eloping last year, as Chandni’s family disapproved of their relationship. The couple, along with their toddler, had visited Chandan’s ailing father before tragedy struck.
Sources reveal that the fatal attack occurred shortly after the trio left Chandan’s father’s place. Chandni’s father, Pappu Singh, and her brother, Dheeraj Kumar, are suspected to be the perpetrators of the heinous crime.
Naugachhia Superintendent of Police, Sushant Kumar Saroj, provided details on the incident, stating, “As they were on their way to their new house, Chandni’s father, Pappu Singh, attacked Chandan with a rod and asked his son Dheeraj Kumar to come over. They then shot all three dead.” The victims succumbed to their injuries on the spot.
The couple, belonging to the same village and caste, had faced opposition to their relationship from both families due to their proximity as neighbours. Despite being in a four-year relationship, Chandni and Chandan eloped in 2021, seeking a life together.
Though Chandan’s family had reportedly warmed up to the idea of reconciling with the marriage, Chandni’s family remained vehemently opposed. The couple had even expressed concerns about their safety to local police, but were allegedly advised against taking action at that time.
The authorities are currently in pursuit of Pappu Singh and Dheeraj Kumar, with multiple teams deployed to effect their arrests. Forensic experts are actively investigating the crime scene, and additional security measures have been implemented to maintain public peace.
Expressing grief and seeking justice, Chandan’s elder brother, Kedar Nath Singh, recounted the tragic events: “My brother fell in love with Chandni and married her. They were both happy together. My brother, his wife, and their daughter had come to see our ailing father moments before being shot dead. My sister-in-law’s father and brother killed them and fled the scene.”
The community is left in shock as the search for the perpetrators intensifies, and authorities work towards bringing those responsible to justice.
