Controversy Erupts After Licensed Rifle Firing at International Athletes’ Wedding in Meerut

Meerut: The wedding of international javelin thrower Annu Rani and Rohtak-based kickboxer Sahil Bhardwaj turned into a legal controversy after the couple engaged in celebratory gunfire on stage. The incident occurred on November 18 at The Gods Palace Resort and was caught on video, which quickly went viral on social media, prompting police action.

Havoc on the Stage

The video clearly shows the bride and groom firing a licensed rifle into the air immediately after the jai mala ceremony. Despite the rifle being licensed, celebratory gunfire is strictly prohibited under the law. Authorities confirmed that the rifle was recovered from Annu Rani’s in-laws’ house in Rohtak on November 20, and the process for license cancellation is underway. A formal report has been prepared for the District Magistrate.

Sensitive Case Due to National-Level Athletes

Police officials highlighted that this case is highly sensitive because it involves two national-level athletes. The Sardhana Police have taken strict action to set a precedent, emphasizing that violations of law will not be tolerated, regardless of whether it occurs during weddings or other celebrations. CO Sardhana, Ashutosh Kumar, stated that no circumstances justify celebratory firing and that legal action would follow.

From Wedding Stage to Court Proceedings

Annu Rani, an international javelin thrower from Meerut, and Sahil Bhardwaj, a renowned kickboxer from Haryana, hosted a high-profile wedding. Following the traditional jai mala ceremony, the couple fired into the air from the stage. The incident, captured on video, went viral, attracting nationwide attention and sparking police intervention.

Meerut Police Leading by Example

The investigation is now progressing rapidly. Sources reveal that the Meerut Police are treating this case as a model action to deter similar incidents in the future. The authorities aim to send a clear message that law enforcement will be uncompromising, even when national-level athletes are involved.