Azad Bind was shot dead by bike-borne attackers while travelling to his wedding in Jaunpur. Police say opposition to the marriage within the bride’s extended family is central to the investigation.
A wedding procession in Uttar Pradesh’s Jaunpur turned into a scene of horror after a groom, who had been threatened just two days earlier, was shot dead on his way to the ceremony.
Family members said they had been warned of a possible attack. “We heard two days ago that there could be violence. We even thought of informing the police,” a relative said, adding that the concerns were brushed aside.
The attack happened on National Highway 135-A on Friday evening, about five kilometres from the groom’s home. Azad Bind was travelling in a flower-decorated car when bike-borne assailants intercepted the vehicle.
An eyewitness inside the car said, “Two to three people came on a bike. Their faces were covered, even the number plate was hidden with a cloth. They opened fire and ran away.”
According to the witness, at least three shots were fired in quick succession.
‘HE SAID HE WOULDN’T SURVIVE’
Moments after being hit, Azad was still conscious. A family member recalled his last words, “He was saying, ‘I won’t be able to save myself.’”
Panic gripped the car. Instead of chasing the attackers, those inside rushed him to a nearby hospital. He was first taken to a local facility and later referred to the district hospital, where doctors declared him dead.
Police believe the attack was pre-planned. Investigators said the accused were tracking the movement of the wedding procession and were in constant contact to get its location.
Superintendent of Police Kunwar Singh said the murder was linked to opposition to the marriage within the bride’s extended family.
BRIDE’S RELATIVE AMONG KEY ACCUSED
Police have named Pradeep Bind and Ravi Yadav as the main accused, with Bhole Rajbhar also identified. Pradeep, a relative of the bride, was allegedly unhappy with the marriage.
During questioning, the bride confirmed that Pradeep had opposed the wedding and had even issued threats days before the incident.
Rs 25,000 REWARD, ACCUSED ON THE RUN
All three accused are absconding. Police have announced a Rs 25,000 reward for information leading to their arrest. Multiple teams have been formed, and raids are underway.
Heavy police deployment has been made in the area following the incident.
ACCUSED HAS HISTORY OF VIOLENCE
Investigators said Pradeep Bind has a criminal past. He was earlier involved in a contract killing in January 2025 in Jaunpur and was out on bail.
Family members also alleged older disputes involving some of the named accused, claiming there had been previous violent clashes and threats over the past few years.
POSTMORTEM CONFIRMS MULTIPLE BULLETS
The postmortem, conducted under videography and tight security, confirmed two major gunshot injuries, one entering from the back and lodging in the chest, and another passing through the jaw.
The killing has left both families devastated. What was meant to be a night of celebration ended in mourning.
“We were on the way to a wedding. Suddenly, shots were fired. We didn’t even understand what was happening,” a relative said.
The incident has also raised questions over local security, especially after prior threats had already surfaced.(IT)
