MEERUT, April 26 -- A birthday celebration in Khurja town of Bulandshahr district allegedly turned into a triple murder after three members of a councillor's family were shot dead inside a gym late Saturday night, police said.

The incident took place at RJS Fitness Gym on Subhash Marg during a party hosted by 33-year-old Jeetu Saini, the gym operator. Police said several youths had gathered when an argument broke out around 11 pm between Jeetu and Amardeep, 35, cousin of Ward 24 councillor Sanjay Saini. The dispute allegedly escalated after abusive language was used, with Manish, 32, Amardeep's brother, also joining the confrontation.

According to police, Jeetu allegedly left the gym, returned with a licensed pistol and opened fire. Ama...