Paid Rs 1,100, no partner: 'Missing brides' row at MP's Damoh match meet ends in road blockade

BHOPAL: A mass bride-and-groom introduction ceremony organised in Madhya Pradesh's Damoh district descended into chaos on Sunday after participants from the groom's side alleged they were not introduced to any prospective brides despite paying a registration fee.

Angry attendees blocked the Damoh–Jabalpur highway around 3 pm, causing a traffic jam for nearly 45 minutes before Kotwali police intervened and cleared the road.

The event, organised by Radhika Foundation Seva Samiti at a marriage garden near Jabalpur Naka, reportedly registered 529 young men and women, while nearly 5000 people attended from Damoh and nearby areas including Sagar, Jabera and Tendukheda. Male participants paid Rs 1100 to register.

Several attendees claimed they were denied the chance to meet prospective brides and demanded refunds, leading to an uproar. Police said the protest erupted after the organisers allegedly failed to provide the arrangements promised to participants.

Organiser Reena Khatik told the media that the programme was only meant as an introduction platform and that overcrowding made it impossible to introduce everyone. Police said an inquiry will be completed within three days and assured that registration fees will be refunded if irregularities are confirmed.