LUDHIANA, Nov 30 — Two people were shot dead and another injured after a clash between two groups erupted during a wedding in Ludhiana late Saturday, police said. Six men have been arrested, and the groom, contractor Varinder Kapoor, has also been booked.
Police said the fight broke out at Bath Castle Palace on Pakhowal Road when groups led by Ankur and Shubham Mota — both invited to the wedding — confronted each other. A brief argument turned into a scuffle in which hosiery businessman J.K. Dawar was injured. Moments later, shots were fired, causing panic and a stampede at the venue.
The deceased were identified as the groom’s friend, Vasu Chopra, and his relative, Neetu Chhabra.
Commissioner of Police Swapan Sharma said initial inquiry pointed to “a dispute between two youngsters that spiraled out of control,” adding that claims of a gang war “are completely incorrect.” He said those detained were under the influence of alcohol.
“A total of six people have been rounded up, and the remaining accused will be arrested soon,” Sharma said. “If any licensed weapon was used, the licence will be cancelled. Unlicensed arms will be seized.”
A cross-FIR has been filed against both groups, including Ankur, Jasvir, Rubal Pradhan, Dawar, Shubham Mota and Yuvraj Singh, along with unidentified associates. Police said the groom was booked for inviting men with a history of quarrels.
An FIR has also been registered against the marriage palace management for violating administrative security norms.
