Date:02/01/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/01/02/stories/2005010210600300.htm

New Delhi

Shots fired in celebration

By Our Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI, JAN. 1. Panic gripped revellers at Connaught Place here on New Year's Eve when a couple allegedly fired in the air from a licensed revolver. While no one was hurt in the incident, the two have been arrested and their weapon seized.

The incident occurred near Host Restaurant around 10 p.m. when 40-year-old Ram Avtar (40), who runs a catering business from Sita Ram Bazar in Chandni Chowk, pulled out his licensed .32 bore revolver and allegedly fired two rounds in the air in quick succession. Even as people watched in shock, Ram Avtar allegedly handed over the firearm to his wife, Arti (35), asking her to pull the trigger. Arti too fired two rounds in the air, the police said.

Hearing the gunshots, head constable Yashpal and constable Raju Mohan, who were on patrol duty in the area, rushed to the place where the couple was rejoicing after having fired the bullets. Ram Avtar, who was allegedly under the influence of alcohol, and Arti were immediately taken into custody.