A celebratory mehendi function in Dehradun turned chaotic late Monday night after a licensed pistol allegedly went off during dancing, injuring a woman. Police have registered an FIR and taken the accused into custody.
The incident occurred in the Nehru Gram area under Raipur police station limits. According to police, the firing took place around 11:30 pm during a pre-wedding ceremony at a residence in Garhwali Colony.
As per the complaint filed by Kamal Kumar Yadav, a relative attending the function, Lakshman Singh Negi was dancing at the event while carrying a licensed pistol tucked at his waist. During the celebration, the firearm reportedly discharged suddenly. The bullet struck Neelima, the complainant’s sister-in-law, in the leg, causing serious injury. She was immediately rushed to Coronation Hospital for treatment.
Police reached the spot soon after receiving information and took the accused into custody. The pistol has been seized. Station House Officer Girish Negi confirmed that action has been initiated under relevant sections of the Arms Act and other applicable laws. A report will also be sent to the District Magistrate recommending cancellation of the firearm license.
Officials said initial investigation suggests the gun was already loaded and may have fired accidentally while the accused was dancing. However, police are examining all angles to determine whether negligence was involved.
Relatives present at the ceremony said panic spread immediately after the gunshot. Many initially failed to understand what had happened until the injured woman screamed in pain. Several children were also present at the function, raising concerns about the potential scale of the tragedy. Police said a major mishap was narrowly averted as the firearm was reportedly pointed downward when it discharged.
