In a shocking incident, Avnish Kumar, a newly appointed teacher in Bihar who had recently cleared the Bihar Public Service Commission, was forcibly kidnapped and married against his will. The unsettling event unfolded on Friday, December 13, while Kumar was on his way to school in Kaithar district. The case highlights the disturbing practice of “Pakaduah Shaadi” (groom kidnapping), prevalent in parts of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
“Pakaduah Shaadi” or “Jabaria Shaadi” refers to the practice of forcibly marrying a man, often targeting individuals with stable jobs or significant financial standing. This archaic custom, still practiced in some regions, represents a dark chapter in societal norms, raising questions about the violation of personal rights.
What Happened to Avnish Kumar?
Avnish Kumar, son of Sudhakar Rai and a resident of Rajaura in Begusarai district, was abducted by around 12 men traveling in two SUVs. The group intercepted the e-rickshaw in which Kumar was commuting and forcibly took him to a temple. The kidnappers were relatives of Gunjan, a woman who alleged a four-year romantic relationship with Kumar.
Gunjan, a resident of Lakhisarai, claimed that Kumar had promised to marry her but later refused. “He had promised to marry me and start a family,” she said. Gunjan further revealed, “He even took me to his school. But when I informed my family about us and we approached him for marriage, he refused. This was unacceptable.”
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A viral video from the incident shows Kumar being held by Gunjan’s relatives, while Gunjan is seen with vermilion on her forehead, symbolizing marriage. After the forced marriage, the couple was taken to Kumar’s residence, where chaos ensued.
Avnish Kumar’s Response
Avnish Kumar has denied all allegations, vehemently rejecting any romantic involvement with Gunjan. He stated, “I had no love for that girl,” and accused Gunjan of harassment, including frequent calls and stalking. Kumar has filed a police complaint against Gunjan, accusing her of forced marriage and physical assault.
Gunjan, on the other hand, has lodged a counter-complaint, accusing Kumar of betrayal and seeking justice for his alleged refusal to honor their relationship.
The Social Context
This incident sheds light on the persistence of regressive traditions like groom kidnapping in modern society. The practice not only violates individual freedoms but also perpetuates a culture of fear and coercion.
The Avnish Kumar case is a grim reminder of the deep-seated social issues that need urgent redressal. As both parties seek justice, the incident raises broader questions about consent, personal rights, and the need for stronger measures to curb such practices. This case serves as a call to action for policymakers and society to address and eradicate these archaic customs.
