Bihar woman defies stereotypes, rescues mother-in-law after shooting attack

Patna: Dispelling the stereotyped notion of an "antagonistic saas-bahu [daughter-in-law, mother-in-law]" relationship, a woman in the Indian state of Bihar's Begusarai district displayed remarkable courage on Sunday. Not only did she come to the aid of her mother-in-law after a shooting incident, but she also confronted and apprehended the two attackers, challenging prevailing stereotypes.

The incident unfolded at Chamta Rajauli Kurma embankment as Anita Devi, aged 60, set out to buy medicines from the market on Sunday morning. Suddenly, two individuals opened fire on her, resulting in a gunshot wound. Anita Devi collapsed on the ground in the aftermath of the attack.

Upon hearing the gunfire, Nibha Devi, who was at her residence nearby, swiftly responded. She pursued the attackers, successfully capturing and detaining them in her house. Recounting the incident to local reporters, Nibha Devi stated, "I was at home when the shooting occurred. Upon rushing outside, I witnessed my mother-in-law on the ground, and two individuals attempting to flee. I chased them down, managed to apprehend them, and locked them in a room. Subsequently, I contacted the police."

Post-incident, Nibha Devi, with the assistance of villagers, rescued her mother-in-law and transported her to the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Bachhwara block for initial treatment. Following preliminary medical care, doctors referred Anita Devi to Sadar Hospital in Begusarai, where the bullet was successfully removed through surgery, and her health is now improving.

Nibha Devi asserted that the assailants targeted her mother-in-law due to their interest in the 5 Katha land registered in her name. An officer from Bachwara police station identified one of the accused as Amresh Kumar, along with an accomplice, stating, "We have arrested the accused under IPC sections related to attempted murder. The matter is currently under investigation."