CHAOS erupted at a private wedding hall in the Khanugaon area of the State capital on Monday night when a minor argument over the payment for cigarettes and gutka escalated into a violent confrontation between two parties. The dispute began during the pleasant atmosphere of the wedding ceremony but quickly turned aggressive, leading to a fight and soon, stone pelting.

 

The stones caused immediate panic among the wedding guests and family members, who scrambled to flee and save themselves. Payment Dispute Over Gutka Purchase: Police stated the dispute began over the payment for purchasing cigarettes and gutka. Some individuals attempted to pay using digital means like ‘PhonePe,’ according to modern trends, while the main accused, Mohtasim, strictly demanded cash payment only.

 

This trivial disagreement quickly spiralled, leading to pushing, shoving, and eventually, the throwing of stones picked up from the street. Three people were injured during the clash, including a wedding guest who sustained a severe head injury from a stone. The injured main accused, Mohtasim, was also taken into custody and immediately sent for treatment. All injured persons underwent mandatory medical examinations to confirm the severity of their injuries.

 

Upon receiving the information, a joint team from the Koh-eFiza and Shahjahanabad Police Stations immediately rushed to the spot. They used significant force to disperse the rioters and brought the situation under control. Police Station Incharge KG Shukla stated that action was taken against nine people for disturbing law and order and assault. An FIR has been registered against them under sections related to rioting, assault, and unlawful assembly.

 

Police immediately apprehended seven accused, including Mohtasim, Mohammad Khan, Faisal, Muktaqim, Ehtesham, Azharuddin, and Naeem. Special teams have been deployed to search for the two other absconding accused, including Ali. Police are scrutinising CCTV footage from the surrounding areas to identify any other rioters involved in the chaos and ensure their swift arrest. All accused are residents of Khanugaon.

 

The Station Incharge clarified that a serious investigation into the matter is ongoing, and strict legal action against the miscreants will be ensured.