Violent scuffle at pre-wedding party; case registered

After a violent scuffle-cum-clash at a pre-wedding function held near Phagwara, the local police have registered a case on the basis of a complaint lodged by one of the parties involved.

The case has been registered under sections 115(2),126(2),351(2),299,190,191(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against nine persons pertaining to allegations of assault, causing hurt, criminal intimidation and unlawful assembly against members of the opposing group. Phagwara SP Madhvi Sharma confirmed that the matter is under investigation and that all allegations are being examined on the basis of evidence and statements recorded so far.

The incident occurred during a private celebration organised at a palace near Phagwara in connection with an upcoming wedding in a local business family. According to the complainant, a dispute allegedly arose during the course of the evening, which escalated into a heated argument and subsequently into a physical altercation. It has been alleged that during the confrontation, individuals from the opposing side engaged in aggressive behaviour, resulting in injuries to at least one person present at the venue.

Sources familiar with the complaint state that an injured individual was later taken to the Civil Hospital in Phagwara, where a medico-legal report (MLR) was conducted. The medical documentation has reportedly been made part of the investigation record. Police officials confirmed that statements of witnesses present at the function are being recorded and that CCTV footage from the venue, if available, is also being examined.

Meanwhile, the counter-party has reportedly contested the allegations and have submitted its own version of events to the authorities. According to sources, the opposing side claims that the altercation was triggered by provocation and has alleged that an attempt is being made to portray the incident in a one-sided manner. It is also being claimed that efforts were made during the night to amicably resolve the dispute and that discussions regarding a compromise had taken place at the hospital premises following the incident.

However, despite reported attempts at reconciliation, the formal complaint was subsequently filed, leading to the registration of the FIR. Police officials have declined to comment on the merits of the compromise claims, stating that the investigation will determine the factual sequence of events.

Senior officers in the district police administration have maintained that there will be no bias in the probe and that action will be taken strictly in accordance with the law. They have urged both sides to cooperate with the investigation and refrain from making public statements that could prejudice the inquiry. The case now hinges on medical evidence, eyewitness testimonies, forensic examination of the scene and any documentary material submitted by either side. Until the completion of the investigation, the allegations and counter-allegations remain subject to verification. Further developments are awaited as police continue their inquiry.