Azamgarh triple murder: 2 priests, woman shot dead during puja; kids held hostage
Three people, including two priests, were shot dead during a puja at a house in Uttar Pradesh’s Azamgarh on Tuesday evening, triggering panic in Shambhupur village and prompting a heavy police deployment.
The victims included Babita, the wife of Arvind Singh, and two priests who had reportedly come to the house to conduct the puja. One of the priests has been identified as Mahendra Pathak.
According to preliminary information, a dispute broke out after Arvind Singh returned home from the market and allegedly questioned the priests about their Aadhaar cards. The argument escalated, following which shots were fired from a pistol.
Three people were injured in the firing and later died. Other priests attending the puja reportedly fled the spot.
The situation remained tense after the firing as police received information that Arvind Singh had allegedly locked his two sons inside a room and was inside the house with firearms.
He is reportedly in possession of three licensed weapons belonging to the family and more than 40 rounds of ammunition, according to preliminary information.
Police and local residents gathered outside the house, while officers attempted to establish communication with Singh and resolve the situation without further violence.
Police asked villagers and media personnel to maintain a safe distance from the spot.PUJA LINKED TO BROTHER'S MURDER
The firing took place during a puja that was reportedly organised in connection with the death of Arvind Singh’s brother, Guddu Singh.
Guddu Singh was allegedly shot dead around two years ago. The family had reportedly organised the puja for his peace.
According to the preliminary account, Arvind Singh had opposed holding the puja and had asked his family not to organise it. Despite his objections, the ceremony was held at the house on Tuesday, leading to the confrontation.
Police have not yet established the exact reason for the firing or the sequence of events that led to the three deaths.
Police officers reached the scene after receiving information about the firing and began collecting evidence, including the weapon and other material related to the shooting.
The priests who were present at the puja but fled after the firing are also expected to be questioned as part of the investigation.
The bodies will be sent for post-mortem examination. Police said the exact circumstances surrounding the deaths will become clearer after the investigation and post-mortem reports.- EndsPublished By: Aprameya RaoPublished On: Sep 22, 2026 23:08 IST
