The murder of the son of an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) sarpanch in Punjab’s Amritsar district has triggered a political controversy in the election-bound state. Tirath Singh was shot dead and his friend injured outside a Gurdwara in the village of Jheete Kalan, Monday evening.
Attack Outside Gurdwara
Police said the incident occurred around 7:30 PM as Tirath Singh and his companion, Ranjeet Singh, were coming back after they offered prayers. The attackers were allegedly shooting at them, making a hit of on account of 7 to 8 shots.
Tirath Singh was shot twice, and killed on the spot at the scene. Ranjeet Singh was shot and injured in the thigh after which he was rushed to hospital for his treatment. According to police officials, he is out of danger.
An old family feud appears to have been a factor in the shooting, according to preliminary investigations. The incident was, however, alleged to be linked to the family’s opposition to local drug peddlers, by the brother of the victim Karaj Singh.
Police Identify Four Suspects
The police have four suspects: Gurjant, Gora, Hockey (also known as Harkirat and Gurditt Singh). An FIR against four people has been filed.
Several police force units have been dispatched for raids and to trace back the suspects. An investigation is ongoing to find out the background of the shooting and why it happened.
Political Controversy Intensifies
The killing has triggered a political tug of war in Punjab where the case has raised questions due to the son being an associated sarpanch with the ruling AAP.
Police are continuing their investigation, and the motive of the allegations is yet to be determined.