Uttar Pradesh man dies after village headman opens fire at son's naming ceremony

A 23-year-old man died after a village headman allegedly opened fire at his son's naming ceremony in Mohanpur village, Uttar Pradesh, late Thursday night. Police said the accused, identified as Sukhdev, was upset over not being invited to the event and arrived at the venue with a firearm.

The victim, Avneesh Kumar, was hosting a feast as part of the naming ceremony of his newborn son. According to Superintendent of Police Rajesh Dwivedi, Sukhdev fired two rounds at the gathering. One of the bullets struck Avneesh, who was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

"In the ensuing chaos, the deceased's family members and guests held the accused at the scene and subjected him to a severe beating. Sukhdev sustained serious injuries and has been admitted to a hospital, where his condition remains serious," the SP said.

The police have sent the body for post-mortem examination and are searching for the weapon used in the crime. A case has been registered and further investigation is underway, Mr. Dwivedi added.

The naming ceremony, known as Namkaran, is an important Hindu ritual performed after a child's birth. It is customary to invite relatives, friends, and community members, and in rural areas, local representatives like the village headman are often expected to be present.

Police sources indicated that the lack of an invitation to the ceremony may have provoked the attack. However, the exact motive will be confirmed after the recording of statements. The accused is currently hospitalised, and formal legal proceedings will be initiated once he is declared fit to co-operate with the investigation.

The incident has raised concerns about the use of firearms in rural disputes and the need for stricter regulation of weapons in civilian hands. Authorities have urged calm in the village, and the investigation is being closely monitored by senior police officials.