Fatal Shooting of Ex-Sarpanch's Son in Punjab's Barnala: Suspected Personal Enmity Case Under Investigation

Former Sarpanch's Son Shot Dead In Punjab's Barnala, Investigation In Progress

The accused has been identified as Jinder Singh. (Representational)

Barnala:

In a shocking incident in Punjab's Barnala district on Saturday, the son of a former sarpanch was fatally shot by an assailant. The victim, who was in his 40s, was killed in what police suspect may be a case of personal enmity.

The attacker, identified by authorities, managed to escape from the scene. Police have launched a manhunt to apprehend him.

Sukhwinder Singh Calcutta, the victim, was at a property dealer's shop in the vicinity of Sehna village's bus stand when the shooting occurred.

Barnala SSP Mohd Sarfaraz Alam informed reporters that the accused has been identified as Jinder Singh. According to eyewitness accounts, Jinder was apparently acquainted with Sukhwinder Singh.

"Initial investigation suggests personal enmity as the motive behind this incident. Shortly before the crime, a video emerged where Jinder went live and discussed a financial dispute between himself and the victim. We will be able to confirm this angle once we apprehend the suspect," the SSP explained.

Following a complaint lodged by the deceased's family members, police have registered a case and formed multiple teams to locate and arrest the accused.

"We are conducting raids at various locations and expect to apprehend the accused soon," assured the SSP.

Meanwhile, opposition parties have criticized the AAP government regarding the "deteriorating law and order" situation in Punjab.

Senior Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa stated in a post on X, "Sukhwinder Singh Calcutta was brutally shot dead near the Sehna bus stand in broad daylight."

"I urge the chief justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court to take suo motu cognisance (of the matter) and direct the Central agencies to conduct a fair and independent probe," added the Leader of Opposition in Punjab Assembly.