Honour horror in India: 20-year-old girl shot dead by father, cousin over marriage dispute

Sumesh Rajan

16 January 2025

 

In a shocking case of alleged honour killing, a 20-year-old woman was shot dead by her father and cousin at Gwalior, in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, after she opposed an arranged marriage and insisted on marrying a partner of her choice. The incident took place on January 14 in the Gole Ka Mandir area while police officers were present nearby.

According to authorities, the victim, identified as Tanu Gurjar, had released a video prior to her death, accusing her father, Mahesh Gurjar, and other relatives of detaining and physically assaulting her for rejecting the arranged marriage.

"I have been in a relationship for six years. Initially, my family approved, but later they refused. They beat me and threaten to kill me... If anything happens to me, my family will be responsible," she stated in the video.

Despite her resistance, her family had scheduled her wedding for February 18 with another man, even sending out invitations. The dispute escalated during a community meeting convened to address the issue. While police were present at the location investigating Tanu’s video statement, Mahesh Gurjar requested permission to speak to his daughter in private. Once inside his home, he allegedly shot her with a country-made pistol. Reports indicate that her cousin, Rahul Gurjar, also fired at her before fleeing the scene.

Law enforcement officials confirmed that Tanu sustained four gunshot wounds -- to her chest, forehead, neck, and face. Officers rushed inside upon hearing the gunfire but found her dead on the spot.

Gwalior Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Nagendra Singh Sikarwar stated, "The victim opposed an arranged marriage and insisted on marrying a person of her choice. Her father and cousin allegedly shot her multiple times. The forensic team has collected evidence, and the prime accused has been arrested under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)."

While Mahesh Gurjar was arrested at the scene, a search operation is underway to apprehend Rahul Gurjar, who remains at large.




 

 

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