Bihar Bridegroom Murder Case

In March 2025, in Bihar's Patna district, a newlywed groom, Rajkumar Sah, was found strangled in his marital home just three weeks after his wedding. The investigation by the Patna police, led by SHO Rajeev Ranjan, quickly focused on the bride, Anita Devi, and a local man, Mohan Sharma. Evidence revealed that Anita and Mohan were in a pre-marital relationship and conspired to eliminate Rajkumar to continue their affair and seize the dowry assets, which included cash and a motorcycle. The post-mortem report confirmed death by asphyxiation. Following a swift trial, the Patna Civil Court convicted both defendants, sentencing them to life imprisonment.

The Patna Civil Court found Anita Devi and Mohan Sharma guilty of conspiracy to murder and murder under Sections 302 and 120B of the Indian Penal Code. In September 2025, both were sentenced to rigorous life imprisonment with a fine of ₹50,000 each.

The primary legal dispute centered on the admissibility of digital evidence, specifically recovered WhatsApp messages between the two defendants plotting the murder. The defense argued this evidence was illegally obtained without proper forensic authorization. Another key point of contention was whether the murder was premeditated or a crime of passion, which would impact sentencing severity.

The case sent shockwaves through Bihar, challenging the stereotypical narrative of dowry deaths where brides are typically victims. It ignited intense public debate on the misuse of dowry laws and the criminal potential of extramarital affairs in conservative societies. Women's rights groups expressed concern that the case would be used to discredit genuine dowry harassment claims, while local media heavily covered the trial, sensationalizing the narrative of the "black widow bride."