A tragic incident occurred in Kulgaon village under the Rohru sub-division of Shimla district, where celebratory gunfire during a late-night religious gathering claimed the life of a 26-year-old woman. The event took place late Sunday night during the consecration ceremony of a newly built temple dedicated to the local deity. As people danced to local music, sudden firing broke out, and a stray bullet struck Ritika, a resident of Bakora village in tehsil Chirgaon.
Woman Dies on the Spot
Ritika died instantly, leaving behind two children. The accused persons managed to flee the scene but were later arrested by the police. According to the police, an FIR has been registered on charges of murder and under Section 25 of the Arms Act. The accused include 28-year-old Rajat Sohta of Rohru Upper Bazar and 32-year-old Amit Bhapta of Mandharli village of Rohru.
Eyewitness Accounts and Outrage
Eyewitnesses reported that the firing was part of a celebratory practice, which turned deadly within moments. The incident sparked outrage and raised serious concerns about safety at public and religious events. Locals demanded a strict ban on weapons during such gatherings. Tensions escalated further as the victim's family protested, alleging administrative insensitivity for not providing a proper vehicle to transport the body to Indira Gandhi Medical College, Shimla, for a post-mortem. The situation was brought under control after authorities arranged for the body's proper transportation to Shimla.
Appeal by Authorities
The Rohru sub-divisional magistrate appealed to the public not to bring weapons to religious and social gatherings. The police continue to investigate the matter.
