SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, Feb 27: A couple defied family opposition and solemnized their marriage inside the poisoning ward of Shahid Nirmal Mahto Medical College Hospital (SNMMCH) in Dhanbad. Surrounded by patients and nursing staff, the couple chose the unusual venue to avoid protests from their families.
Alok Kumar Verma, who had been admitted to the hospital’s poisoning ward, performed the marriage ritual by applying vermillion on Neha Kumari’s forehead. Neha arrived at the hospital on Wednesday afternoon, dressed as a bride and carrying a packet of vermillion.
The couple, both residents of Kumardhubi in Dhanbad district, had been in a relationship for the past two years but faced opposition due to inter-caste differences.
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Desperate Act Following Family’s Refusal
Alok consumed poison on Monday evening after his family refused to approve his marriage to Neha. In critical condition, he was admitted to SNMMCH. The next day, Neha arrived at the hospital but was prevented from meeting him by his family. Determined not to leave without seeing Alok, she remained at the hospital.
On the occasion of Mahashivratri, Neha returned with bridal attire and completed the marriage ritual despite resistance from Alok’s family.
The hospital superintendent, Dr. SK Chourasia, and the head of the medicine department, Dr. UK Ojha, confirmed that they learned about the wedding only after it had taken place inside the ward.
A First in Medical College History
“Just a day ago, there was high drama at the hospital as the boy’s family refused to let the girl meet him. Finally, on the occasion of Mahashivratri, she arrived in bridal attire with a packet of vermillion and completed the marriage rituals,” said Dr. U.K. Ojha.
Dr. Ojha, who has been in the medical profession for four decades, remarked that he had never witnessed a marriage taking place inside a hospital ward. However, he noted that the ceremony did not disrupt other patients in the ward, who remained undisturbed as the unusual wedding unfolded.
