Attackers open fire over an alleged dispute linked to an old relationship and pressure to withdraw the police case
PATNA — A Muslim woman was seriously injured after being shot in broad daylight in Muzaffarpur district of Bihar on Thursday, in an attack that has triggered shock and concern among residents.
The incident took place in the Ahiyapur police station area near the Medical Overbridge Road, when two motorcycle-borne men stopped an e-rickshaw and opened fire on the passenger, identified as Medina Khatoon, a resident of Bochahan block.
According to police and family members, the attackers first stopped the vehicle and threatened the passengers. One of them entered the e-rickshaw and allegedly assaulted Medina’s sister-in-law, Zoya Khatoon, before issuing a direct warning.
Zoya Khatoon said, “They said, ‘If you do not withdraw the case, you will be killed’”.
Soon after the threat, the attackers opened fire and fled the scene, leaving the woman critically injured.
Family members stated that Medina Khatoon suffered gunshot wounds to her hand, stomach, and near her lungs. She was first rushed to a nearby facility and later referred to Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH), where she remains in critical condition.
Doctors are closely monitoring her condition.
Police sources and the family have indicated that the attack is linked to a long-standing dispute involving a previous relationship.
Zoya Khatoon alleged that Medina had been in a relationship with a man named Mohammad Shamsad Sheikh for nearly five years. She further claimed that he had taken around ₹10–12 lakh from Medina during the course of their relationship.
She said when Medina pressed for marriage, the man allegedly refused and cut off all contact.
The family has also stated that a criminal case had earlier been filed at Bochahan police station (Case No. 24/26), after which continuous pressure was being applied to withdraw the complaint.
Police reached the spot soon after the incident and began collecting evidence from the crime scene. CCTV footage from nearby areas is being reviewed to identify and trace the attackers.
Ahiyapur police have confirmed that the victim was shot while travelling in an e-rickshaw and is currently under treatment.
SDPO Vinita Sinha said, “The woman was shot near the Medical Overbridge area under Ahiyapur police station limits. She has been referred to SKMCH for treatment. It is being alleged by the family that she was attacked due to pressure to withdraw a previous case. The matter is under investigation.”
Authorities have assured that all angles of the case are being examined and strict action will follow once the attackers are identified.
