A 22-year-old woman in Chhattisgarh's Janjgir-Champa district refused to marry after discovering the groom was heavily intoxicated during the wedding ceremony, sparking a scuffle at the venue. The bride, Muskan Pradhan, was felicitated by Janjgir-Champa Superintendent of Police Vijay Kumar Pandey at his office on Thursday for her stand against liquor addiction, officials said.
Wedding Turned Sour
Pradhan, a resident of Kosmanda village under Champa police station limits, was scheduled to marry Sant Ram (24), a resident of Khokhra village, on June 23. The wedding procession arrived at Kosmanda around 4 pm, and the ceremony began shortly after. However, the groom was reportedly so drunk that he could not stand properly. Upon learning of his condition, Pradhan refused to proceed with the marriage.
According to police, tensions escalated between the two families and wedding guests following her decision. Police were called, and a team led by Champa police station SHO Ashok Vaishnav arrived to control the situation.
Previous Warning Ignored
Pradhan told police that she had previously warned Sant Ram about his drinking habits after he arrived intoxicated during their engagement. The groom had then promised to stop consuming alcohol, Vaishnav said. While senior family members from both sides discussed the issue, a scuffle broke out between some young members of the wedding party and the bride's side. A few individuals suffered minor injuries and were taken to a hospital, the officer added.
According to family members, the groom's side agreed to compensate the bride's family with approximately Rs 3 lakh to cover wedding preparation expenses, Vaishnav said.
Woman's Resolve and Police Recognition
Pradhan, who is educated up to Class 10, told reporters she wants to continue her studies. On Thursday, SP Vijay Pandey felicitated her in the presence of social workers and women representatives. The incident has sparked widespread discussion in the village and nearby areas, with many residents praising her decision.
Police said the episode sends a strong message against alcohol abuse and highlights the importance of responsibility, respect, and good conduct in marriage. Many locals described Pradhan's decision as an inspiration for families that often overlook addiction and irresponsible behavior when entering matrimonial relationships.
