Ludhiana: A chilling episode of gang violence unfolded late Saturday night in Ludhiana’s Sundar Nagar Chowk, where two young men riding a scooter were ambushed and shot in a targeted attack. The incident has left one youth dead and another battling for his life in the hospital. The shooting, reportedly the result of an ongoing gang rivalry, has been claimed by the Kaushal Chaudhary gang through a provocative post on social media.
Youth Gunned Down in Cold Blood
The deceased has been identified as Kartik Baggan, a resident of Ghati Mohalla. His friend Mohan, who was riding pillion, sustained a bullet injury to his back and remains in critical condition at CMC Hospital. Mohan, known to work as a car washer, was reportedly shot first, which caused the two-wheeler to lose balance and topple in the middle of the road.
Eyewitnesses described a sudden burst of gunfire as two motorcycle-borne assailants intercepted the victims’ Activa scooter and opened fire. Panic swept the area as residents witnessed the brutal attack unfold in broad public view. Kartik was reportedly hit by as many as six bullets in different parts of his body.
Gang’s Name Surfaces Online
Soon after the shooting, a message began circulating on social media from accounts linked to the Kaushal Chaudhary gang, openly taking responsibility for the murder. The post, allegedly authored by gang members Doni Ball Mohabbat Randhawa, Amar Khabe Prabh Daswal, and Kaushal Chaudhary himself, claimed the killing was retribution for Kartik’s verbal abuse directed at their associates.
The message warned others against crossing the gang, stating ominously: “Whoever wrongs our brothers should forget that they’re alive in this world.”
History of Rivalry
According to police sources, the incident may have stemmed from a long-standing feud. Approximately two and a half years ago, Kartik was reportedly targeted in another shooting, surviving after taking a bullet to his thigh. Investigators believe the latest attack could be linked to unresolved animosity dating back to that earlier incident.
Investigation Underway
Following the attack, senior police officials, including personnel from Sundar Nagar Police Station, rushed to the scene and initiated an investigation. Late into the night, grieving relatives gathered at the hospital, awaiting updates and mourning the sudden loss.
Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Davinder Chaudhary stated that the police are actively scanning CCTV footage from the vicinity and recording statements from Kartik’s family. The data from Kartik’s phone is also being analyzed for leads.
“We are working with full force on this case and expect to make progress soon,” ADCP Chaudhary assured.
Postmortem and Further Steps
Kartik’s body has been sent for postmortem, expected to be conducted today. Meanwhile, teams have been deployed to identify and apprehend the shooters. Police have also not ruled out more suspects being involved, given the coordinated nature of the attack.
Rising Concern Over Gang Activity
This brazen killing has once again brought to light the growing concerns over gang activity in Ludhiana and other parts of Punjab. As law enforcement scrambles to restore order, residents are left shaken by the audacity of an attack carried out in the open — and the boldness of those claiming credit.
Authorities have vowed swift action, but locals say the fear on the ground is real — and growing.