A 22-year-old woman was allegedly assaulted by her parents in Bihar's Madhepura district after she married a person of her choice, according to police and local reports. The incident, which took place in a village under the Shankarpur area, came to light after a video of the alleged assault surfaced on social media and quickly gained widespread attention. The footage prompted police intervention and an investigation into the matter.
The woman, identified as Pooja Kumari, had reportedly married 17-year-old Bittu Kumar about a month ago. According to reports, the couple are related and live in the same locality. Their marriage allegedly led to tensions between the two families and sparked discussions among local residents, eventually resulting in a village panchayat being convened to address the issue.
During the panchayat meeting, community members reportedly decided that the couple should be separated. Reports also stated that a fine of Rs 1 lakh was imposed on the boy's family, with directions that the amount be paid to the woman's family. Following the meeting, Pooja Kumari was allegedly persuaded by her parents to return from her in-laws' home to her parental residence.
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According to local accounts, the situation turned violent shortly after she returned home. The alleged assault took place on June 8, but it drew public attention only after a video of the incident circulated online on Saturday. The footage purportedly shows the woman's mother dragging her by the hair and throwing her to the ground, while her father is seen physically assaulting her. The video also appears to show the father placing his foot on her neck as villagers stand nearby.
The viral video triggered widespread discussion across the region and led authorities to take immediate notice of the matter. Police subsequently intervened and brought the woman into protective custody. She was taken to the local police station, where officials recorded her statement and began gathering information related to the incident and the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault.
Shankarpur Station House Officer Rajeev Kumar told NDTV that a written complaint had been received from the victim. He said police are investigating the allegations on the basis of the complaint and the viral video. Authorities have stated that legal action will be taken against anyone found responsible after the investigation is completed, while efforts continue to establish all facts related to the case.
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