A tragic case of Gujarat wedding day murder has shocked Bhavnagar and raised serious questions about growing relationship disputes turning violent. A 24-year-old woman, identified as Soni Rathod, was killed by her fiancé on the morning of their wedding after an argument over a saree and money escalated into a fatal assault, police officials said on Thursday.
The accused, Sajan Baraiya, fled the spot soon after the incident, and a search operation has been launched to trace him. Police confirmed that he is currently absconding, and teams are scanning multiple locations.
Argument Over Saree Turned Deadly
The murder took place on 15 November in the Ganga Jalia police station area of Bhavnagar. According to investigating officers, Sajan went to Soni’s house on the wedding morning. The couple, who had been living together and had planned to register their marriage that day, allegedly argued over expenses and a saree.
Moreover, police said the argument intensified quickly. Sajan allegedly hit Soni on the head with an iron pipe. He then slammed her head against a wall, which left her critically injured. Family members and neighbours rushed her for medical assistance, however she succumbed to her injuries shortly after.
DCP R.R. Sindhal confirmed the crime and stated that the victim and the accused had been in a live-in relationship before deciding to marry.
“An argument broke out between the two on the morning of the wedding. The accused assaulted Soni and fled,” he said.
Accused Linked to Another Altercation a Day Before
In a significant development, investigators learned that Sajan was also involved in another violent altercation just a day before the murder. A separate police complaint had been lodged related to that dispute.
With the victim’s death, two FIRs have now been registered against him within 24 hours. Police believe this history of aggression could help them understand possible motives and behavioural patterns.
Additionally, officers are collecting digital evidence, including call records, chats, and witness statements to reconstruct the sequence of events.
Police Launch Manhunt, Family Demands Justice
Police teams are searching possible hideouts and checking transport terminals. Authorities expressed confidence that the accused will be arrested soon.
The victim’s family is demanding strict punishment. They are also urging that the state implement stronger safeguards for women facing threats in relationships.
Community leaders in Bhavnagar have also expressed shock and called for awareness programs on domestic and pre-marital violence, especially when couples face financial stress.
A Grim Reminder of Rising Relationship Crimes
The Gujarat wedding day murder has triggered online conversations about the increasing number of violent crimes linked to relationship disputes in India. Many rights groups have argued that emotional or financial disagreements are leading to alarming levels of intimate partner violence.
Additionally, experts believe that couples entering marriage under pressure or unresolved conflict may be more vulnerable to extreme confrontations. They recommend stronger counselling support, especially in cases where couples transition from live-in relationships to marriage.