A mother's ultimate act of courage ended in tragedy in Ludhiana's GTB Nagar locality, where she stepped in front of a bullet to protect her daughter during a violent confrontation with her son-in-law.
A Fatal Confrontation Over a Troubled Marriage
The incident unfolded on Saturday when Vikram Rai, a 21-year-old labourer, arrived at his mother-in-law's house on a motorcycle with an unidentified accomplice. Rai was demanding that his wife, Sakshi, return to their home in Giaspura immediately. Sakshi had sought refuge at her mother, Poonam Pandey's, home on November 26, fleeing what she described as a volatile environment due to Rai's gambling habit.
"I refused, and even my mother told Vikram that her daughter would not go with him," Sakshi stated in her police testimony. The situation escalated rapidly when Rai allegedly threatened, "If you will not come with me, I will shoot you," and brandished a gun.
The Ultimate Sacrifice and a Jammed Gun
In a split-second decision, Poonam Pandey rushed forward to shield her daughter. Vikram Rai fired a single shot, which struck Pandey in the head, killing her instantly. In a chilling turn of events, Rai then reportedly turned the weapon on his wife, Sakshi, and attempted to fire twice more.
Miraculously, the pistol jammed both times, with live rounds falling to the floor. This mechanical failure likely saved Sakshi's life. The suspect and his accomplice then fled the scene. Neighbors rushed Poonam Pandey to a nearby hospital, but she was declared dead on arrival.
Police Investigation and Manhunt Underway
The Jamalpur police have registered a murder case against Vikram Rai and his accomplice. Preliminary investigations indicate the suspect used an illegal pistol, which aligns with previous threats Sakshi reported he had made against her life.
"The investigation suggests the accused used an illegal firearm," a police spokesperson confirmed. "The accused hails from Bihar, and we suspect he may be attempting to flee to his home state. Teams are currently tracking his movements."
The case highlights the dangers of illegal weapons and domestic violence. Sakshi and Rai had entered into a love marriage in March, but the relationship deteriorated quickly due to his alleged gambling addiction and the ensuing conflicts.
