New Delhi, July 10: A lease dispute over a banquet hall in East Delhi’s Madhu Vihar turned violent late Wednesday night after 10 to 15 rounds of gunfire were allegedly fired during a confrontation between two groups. An elderly woman sustained a bullet injury, while Delhi Police have registered a case and launched a search for the accused.
According to preliminary information, the firing took place during an ongoing dispute over possession and operation of a banquet hall. Family members alleged that a group of around 20 to 25 men arrived at the premises in an attempt to forcibly take control of the property.
During the incident, an elderly woman, identified as Khatoon Chaudhary, suffered a bullet injury after a round reportedly grazed her leg. She was injured but escaped a more serious outcome.
The victim’s family claimed the banquet hall has been under their operation for the past 12 years and said they possess all the relevant lease and ownership documents. They alleged that the rival group had been threatening them and demanding money, warning that the property would otherwise be taken over forcibly.
According to the family, the dispute had earlier been reported to the local police station. However, shortly after discussions at the police station, the rival group allegedly returned to the premises, locked the main gate and opened fire.
Family members alleged that the attackers specifically targeted Sohail Chaudhary, the younger brother of banquet hall owner Azad Chaudhary, claiming the firing was intended to kill him. They further alleged that women in the family were forced out of the premises before the shooting.
Police sources said multiple empty cartridges were recovered from the scene. Preliminary findings indicate that 10 to 12 rounds were fired during the incident.
Delhi Police have registered an FIR and initiated an investigation. Officials are examining CCTV footage from the area to identify those involved. Based on information provided by the complainant’s family, several suspects have been identified and police teams are conducting raids to apprehend them.
The investigation is underway, and police are expected to determine the exact sequence of events and the circumstances that led to the violent confrontation.
