In a tragic incident, a government school teacher, his 32-year-old wife Poonam, and their two daughters, Drishti and Suni, were shot dead in Amethi on Thursday. The accused, Chandan Verma, claimed that he killed the family after his relationship with Poonam ended. Verma, a resident of Rae Bareli, allegedly became enraged during a conversation at the victims’ house and shot them. He later attempted to take his own life, but the gun misfired.
Poonam's brother, Bhanu, refuted the police’s claim of an affair, accusing Verma of harassment. He said Verma forced his sister to speak with him and took photos without her consent, which are now being circulated. Bhanu also criticized the police for not acting on a harassment complaint Poonam had filed in August. He believes the murders could have been prevented if the authorities had taken timely action.
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On Saturday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath met the family of the victims in Lucknow and promised justice. He assured the family of government support, including financial help and a job for a family member. The accused, Chandan Verma, was shot in the leg during a police encounter after allegedly opening fire on them.