Patna: A 32-year-old orchestra dancer was shot dead during a wedding celebration in Gopalganj district during the intervening night of Thursday and Friday. The deceased has been identified as Sonu Gond, a resident of Deoria district in Uttar Pradesh.
The incident took place around 1am in Patohwa village under the Kateya police station area, where the wedding of Mahendra Kushwaha’s daughter was being celebrated. A wedding procession had arrived from Uttar Pradesh and an orchestra performance had been organized for the entertainment of guests.
According to eyewitnesses, Sonu was performing continuously on stage during the event. At around midnight, three youths allegedly joined the wedding gathering and repeatedly pressured the orchestra dancer to accompany them and dance according to their wishes. However, Sonu refused their demands.
Ramnarayan Yadav, the owner of the orchestra troupe, said that after declining the youths’ request, Sonu left the stage and went to rest in a tent set up behind the wedding hall. According to police, the three youths then attempted to take him to a secluded location. When Sonu resisted, the accused took out a pistol, shot him in the stomach. He collapsed on the spot after sustaining the gunshot injury. Hearing the shot, the guests and locals gathered at the spot. The injured dancer was rushed for medical treatment, but he succumbed to his injuries before reaching the hospital. Following the incident, panic spread among wedding guests, while the accused fled from the scene.
Police reached the spot after receiving information and launched an investigation. SHO Awadhesh Kumar said the accused have been identified and raids are underway to nab them. “An FIR has been registered against five named accused in the case. Efforts are underway to arrest the three suspects involved in the murder. The motive behind the crime is being investigated,” Kumar said.
Police sent his body for the post-mortem examination. The victim is survived by his wife, three young children, and a younger brother, all of whom he was responsible for.
Background of the Victim
Sonu Gond, a native of Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, had been working as an orchestra dancer for several years to support his family. He was the sole breadwinner for his wife, three young children, and a younger brother. His sudden demise has left the family in a state of shock and financial distress.
Police Investigation and Response
Following the incident, the Kateya police station team arrived at the scene and began collecting evidence. SHO Awadhesh Kumar confirmed that a case has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. The police have formed multiple teams to arrest the absconding accused. Local residents have been cooperative in providing information about the suspects.
Community Reaction
The incident has sparked outrage among the local community and the orchestra troupe. Many have condemned the brutal act and demanded swift justice for the victim. Wedding festivities were abruptly halted, and guests left in fear. The groom’s family expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy.
Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken against the perpetrators. The post-mortem report is awaited, which will aid the investigation. Meanwhile, the body has been handed over to the family for last rites.
This incident highlights the vulnerability of performers at private events and the need for enhanced security measures. Police have urged event organizers to ensure safety protocols, especially when hosting large gatherings with outside performers.
