Anti-Drug Activist Shot by Gang in Punjab’s Barnala District
A local committee member was targeted after reporting drug-related activities to authorities.
1Targeted Attack on Activist
Amandeep Singh, a member of a local anti-drug committee, was shot in the leg at his home in Kaleke village. Four men allegedly forced their way into his residence and opened fire. The victim was rushed to a super-speciality facility in Barnala, where doctors confirmed his condition is currently stable.
2Trigger for the Violence
The shooting followed the committee's recent efforts to combat local drug abuse. Members had detained individuals found with suspected narcotics and reported them to police via the 112 emergency line. The attackers were reportedly associates of those detained, seeking retaliation against the committee members for their active role in village policing.
3Formation of Anti-Drug Panel
The village panchayat and local organizations established the anti-drug committee approximately 15 to 20 days ago. The panel has been systematically identifying and handing over individuals involved in selling or consuming drugs to law enforcement. This proactive approach has led to increased tensions between the committee and local criminal elements.
4Sequence of the Confrontation
The conflict escalated after the committee caught a youth consuming drugs on Saturday morning. The youth identified several associates, who subsequently fled the scene. Later that day, four men identified as Ranjit Singh Raju, Sukhpreet Singh, Sukhchain Singh, and Prince allegedly arrived at the victim's home to carry out the shooting.
5Self-Defense and Escape
Committee member Sukhchain Singh Chinna reported that the assailants also approached his residence during the incident. He fired warning shots into the air using his licensed weapon in self-defense, forcing the attackers to flee in a vehicle. The suspects remain at large, with police teams actively working to locate them.
6Criminal Background of Suspects
Authorities have noted that one of the primary suspects, Ranjit Singh Raju, has prior criminal records. He reportedly faces existing charges under the Arms Act and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. These previous legal entanglements suggest a history of involvement in illicit activities within the Barnala district region.
7Official Response and Investigation
DSP Rajinder Pal Singh confirmed the shooting and stated that police are registering a case based on statements from the victim's family. MLA Labh Singh Ugoke visited the hospital and consulted with the Barnala SSP, receiving assurances that the suspects will be apprehended soon to address the village's security concerns.
8Political Tensions Over Drugs
Congress MLA Kuldeep Singh Kala Dhillon condemned the attack, citing a breakdown in law and order. He threatened protests if arrests are not made within 24 hours. This incident follows public complaints in other districts, such as Sri Muktsar Sahib, regarding the widespread availability of drugs in rural Punjab communities.
Original article: NDTV – India — Anti-Drug Activist Shot by Gang in Punjab’s Barnala District