Samastipur, Bihar: The archaic and controversial practice of ‘Pakadua Vivah’ (forced marriage via kidnapping) has once again made headlines in Bihar. In a shocking incident reported from the Samastipur district, a 23-year-old youth named Nitish Kumar was allegedly drugged and forced to marry a girl at gunpoint.
The Incident: A Deceptive Trap
According to the victim, Nitish Kumar, the entire ordeal was a pre-planned conspiracy. Nitish stated that he was invited to a location by a few acquaintances or distant relatives. Upon arrival, he was offered a cold drink to beat the heat.
Unbeknownst to him, the drink was allegedly laced with heavy sedatives. Shortly after consuming it, Nitish lost consciousness.
Awakening to a Nightmare
Nitish claims that when he finally regained consciousness, he found himself sitting in a wedding pavilion (Mandap), dressed in traditional groom’s attire. Dazed and under the influence of the drugs, he was forced to perform the wedding rituals.
He alleged that when he attempted to resist or protest, the girl’s family members threatened him with dire consequences and brandished weapons to ensure the ceremony was completed.
Victim’s Statement and Family Allegations
“I had no idea what was happening,” Nitish told local media. “By the time I could process my surroundings, the wedding rituals were almost over. I was held captive and told that if I didn’t cooperate, my life would be in danger.”
His family members, upon learning of his disappearance and subsequent forced marriage, have alleged that the girl’s side kidnapped him specifically because he is an “eligible bachelor” from a stable background.
Understanding ‘Pakadua Vivah’ (Groom Kidnapping)
‘Pakadua Vivah’ is a regressive practice formerly common in parts of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. It involves the kidnapping of young men—often those with government jobs or from well-to-do families—who are then forced to marry a girl at gunpoint. This is often done to bypass the demand for dowry or to secure a “good match” for the bride through coercion.
Legal and Judicial Standpoint
The Patna High Court has taken a very strict stance on such cases in recent years. In landmark judgments, the court has ruled that:
- A marriage performed under duress, without the voluntary consent of both parties, is null and void.
- The mere performance of rituals like Sindoor-daan (applying vermillion) does not constitute a valid marriage if it is done under the threat of violence.
Police Investigation
The Samastipur police have taken cognizance of the matter after a formal complaint was lodged. An investigation is currently underway to verify the sequence of events. Officials stated that they are recording statements from both families and will take strict action against those found guilty of kidnapping and criminal intimidation.
Social Outcry
The incident has sparked a debate on social media, with many questioning how such illegal practices continue to exist in 2026. While the administration has worked to curb these incidents, this case serves as a grim reminder of the social challenges that persist in rural pockets of the state.
Quick Facts for SEO:
- Location: Samastipur, Bihar.
- Victim: Nitish Kumar (23 years old).
- Modus Operandi: Sedatives mixed in a cold drink followed by kidnapping.
- Incident Type: Pakadua Vivah (Forced Marriage).
- Status: Police investigation in progress.
Conclusion: This incident in Samastipur is a call to action for local authorities to enforce the law strictly. Such human rights violations not only traumatize the youth involved but also undermine the legal sanctity of the institution of marriage.
