Bihar: Government teacher kidnapped in Begusarai, forced to marry woman at gunpoint

A government school teacher was kidnapped and forcibly married to a woman in Bihar’s Begusarai, in a custom called ‘Pakadwa Vivah’. While Avnish Kumar, the groom, alleged that he was kidnapped by a group of men and forcibly married, Gunjan, the bride, said that the two were in a relationship for four years, and Avnish’s refusal to marry her prompted her family to intervene.

Avnish, who recently cleared the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exam to become a teacher, alleged that a group of men in two SUVs intercepted him while he was going to work. He was taken to a temple and coerced into performing marriage rituals, including applying vermillion to a woman’s forehead.

The incident gained widespread attention after the video of the forced marriage went viral, showing Avnish being compelled to complete wedding rituals despite his resistance.

Avnish also alleged that he was physically assaulted during the ordeal and firmly stated that he did not accept the marriage.

Gunjan, however, has presented a different story. She claimed she and Avnish were in a romantic relationship for four years, which began while she was staying in Rajoura to pursue her studies.

She alleged that Avnish had invited her to Katihar, where he was initially posted as a teacher, and they frequently met there. Gunjan stated that Avnish’s refusal to marry her despite their relationship prompted her family to intervene and arrange the marriage.

After the forced wedding, Gunjan went to Avnish’s home, but his family allegedly mistreated her and refused to accept her. She has since filed a police complaint.

Avnish has denied having any romantic involvement with Gunjan, stating that their interaction was limited to his time as a private tutor at Gunjan’s sister’s house. He accused Gunjan of repeatedly harassing him with phone calls, even after he blocked her number.

Avnish also claimed he had informed the police about his abduction and forced marriage.

(With inputs from Sourabh Kumar.)