Bhavnagar News Today: In a shocking and deeply disturbing incident from Bhavnagar city, a 22-year-old woman was brutally murdered by her groom just an hour before their wedding rituals were scheduled to begin. The crime took place on Friday morning (15 November) in the Prabhudas Talav area near Tekri Chowk, sending waves of shock and grief across the community.
The victim, identified as Soniben Himmatbhai Rathod, was allegedly attacked with an iron pipe by her fiancé Sajan Baraiya, who later fled the scene. According to local police, the couple had been living together in a live-in relationship and were set to get married on the same day. The murder occurred only a short while before the pheras were supposed to take place.
This tragic episode has quickly become a major headline in Bhavnagar news today, raising questions about domestic disputes, rising anger-related crimes, and safety concerns for women, even within committed relationships.
Argument Turns Deadly Just Before Wedding Ceremonies
City DYSP R.R. Sindhal confirmed that the incident took place in the Ganga Jaliya Police Station jurisdiction, near Prabhudas Talav, Street No. 10. According to police details, the groom arrived at the bride’s residence early in the morning. What began as a routine conversation reportedly escalated into a heated argument.
Witnesses and investigators revealed that the dispute may have been triggered by issues related to wedding expenses, traditional panetar arrangements, and money-related disagreements.
As the argument intensified, the accused, 26-year-old Sajan, lost control and reportedly attacked Soniben. Investigators said the assault was brutal — he hit her multiple times with an iron pipe and then smashed her head against a wall, leading to severe injuries and immediate death.
The victim was wearing mehendi from pre-wedding functions, highlighting the heartbreaking reality that she was moments away from becoming a bride.
Bride Had Mehendi on Her Hands as She Was Found Lifeless
One of the most distressing details emerging from the scene was that Soniben still had mehendi on her hands from the previous day’s wedding ceremony. Relatives shared that her pithi ceremony had been completed just the day before, and all wedding preparations were underway for the big day.
Instead of a celebration, the household was shattered by tragedy.
After committing the crime, Sajan fled the site. Local residents immediately informed the police, who rushed to the scene, took custody of the body, and transported it to the hospital for postmortem examination.
Couple Lived Together for Months Before the Wedding
According to DySP Sindhal, the couple had been living together for a long time. Despite regular disagreements between them, both families had agreed to formalize the relationship through marriage. All wedding arrangements were in place, and both families were prepared for the ceremony scheduled for the same day.
However, financial arguments and issues related to panetar — a traditional Gujarati wedding custom involving clothes and gifts — reportedly became the flashpoint that led to the fatal attack.
Police officials stated that Sajan, in a fit of rage, continued to argue loudly even outside the house before committing the assault. Neighbours reported hearing heated shouting shortly before the incident.
Police Launch Manhunt for Accused Groom
The accused groom, Sajan Baraiya, escaped immediately after the murder. Bhavnagar police have launched an intensive manhunt to locate and arrest him. Checkpoints across the district have been alerted, and officers are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby areas to track the suspect’s movement.
A formal complaint has been registered, and the investigation is active. Police officials have assured that the accused will be arrested soon and strict action will be taken.
Community Shocked as Wedding Day Turns into a Crime Scene
The Bhavnagar community has been left stunned, as the incident occurred on what was supposed to be a joyous day for both families. What should have been a moment of celebration turned into a horrific crime scene — highlighting the unpredictable nature of personal disputes and the tragic consequences that can result from uncontrolled anger.
Neighbours described the couple as generally quiet but sometimes argumentative. Nobody imagined the conflict would escalate into something so brutal.
This case has triggered conversations across Gujarat about:
- Rising cases of domestic violence
- Anger-management issues among youth
- Financial stress and relationship conflicts
- Lack of early intervention in toxic relationships
The story has quickly become one of the most searched and discussed topics in Bhavnagar news today.
Also read: Bhavnagra News Today: Youth Attacked With Knife While Trying to Stop Friends’ Fight
What Happens Next in the Investigation?
Police teams are currently:
- Conducting forensic analysis
- Recording statements from neighbours and family members
- Tracing the accused through technical surveillance
- Examining the exact trigger that led to the violent outburst
Authorities mentioned that more details will emerge after the postmortem report is finalized and Sajan is taken into custody for questioning.
Also read: Bhavnagar MP Launches Sansad Lok Setu Mobile App to Address Citizen Concerns Online
A Case That Raises Serious Concerns
This tragic murder on the wedding day serves as a painful reminder of how deeply personal disputes can spiral into extreme violence. As Bhavnagar grapples with the shock, the priority now is to ensure justice for Soniben and to raise awareness about recognizing early warning signs in relationships that turn toxic.
More updates on the investigation are expected throughout the day as police intensify their search for the fugitive groom.
