An 18-year-old bride was critically injured after being shot during her wedding ceremony in Buxar district, in the Indian state of Bihar. The incident occurred on Tuesday night in the Chausa area while the bride was on stage with her groom during the traditional garland exchange ritual.

According to police, the victim, identified as Aarti Kumari, was struck in the stomach by a bullet allegedly fired by a man believed to be a neighbour. Family members and witnesses stated that the suspect had unreciprocated feelings for the bride and opposed her marriage.

After the shooting, relatives and guests immediately transported the injured bride to Sadar Hospital in Buxar. Due to the seriousness of her injuries, she was later transferred to a specialised trauma centre for advanced treatment. Her condition has been described as critical.

Police reported that the suspect fled the scene following the attack and remains at large. Authorities have launched a search operation and are conducting raids to locate and apprehend him. The case is being investigated as a personal dispute.