AMRITSAR— A wave of panic gripped the Chheharta area of Amritsar late Tuesday night after an unidentified assailant opened fire on the nephew of a former Congress councilor. The victim, identified as Sagar, the nephew of former councilor Lakhanpal, sustained a gunshot wound to his stomach and is currently undergoing emergency medical treatment.
The incident occurred around 11:00 PM on March 17, while Sagar was reportedly standing outside his residence performing a routine chore.
The Attack: Targeted While Feeding Dogs
According to family members and eyewitness accounts, Sagar was outside his house with his sister, feeding stray dogs, when the violence erupted.
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The Assailant: A lone individual riding a scooter and wearing a helmet approached the duo.
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The Shooting: Without provocation, the rider pulled out a firearm and discharged several rounds. One bullet struck Sagar in the abdomen, causing him to collapse instantly.
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The Escape: The gunman fled the scene on his scooter immediately after the shooting, taking advantage of the darkness and deserted streets.
Family members rushed Sagar to a nearby private hospital, where his condition is being closely monitored by surgeons.
Police Investigation and Initial Leads
Upon receiving the report, senior police officials, including ACP Shiv Darshan, reached the spot to begin a forensic sweep of the area.
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CCTV Surveillance: Police have started scanning footage from several CCTV cameras installed in the vicinity of Chheharta to trace the escape route of the scooter.
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Possible Motive: While the investigation is in its preliminary stages, ACP Shiv Darshan stated that they are exploring all angles.
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No Confirmed Ties: As of Wednesday morning, the police have found no immediate evidence of prior personal enmity or any specific link to organized gangster groups, though they have not ruled out any possibilities.
Rising Concerns Over Public Safety
The attack on a relative of a political figure has once again raised questions regarding the law and order situation in the border district. Residents of Chheharta expressed shock over the brazenness of the attack, occurring right outside a residential doorstep.
The police have assured the public that “significant clues” have been found and an arrest is expected shortly.
