In a significant breakthrough, the Punjab Police on Monday announced the arrest of seven individuals, including the two alleged shooters, in connection with the brazen murder of an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) village head. The killing, which occurred at a wedding in Amritsar earlier this month, had sparked a major political controversy over the state's law and order situation.
Key Arrests Made in Coordinated Operation
Punjab's Director General of Police (DGP), Gaurav Yadav, stated that the two primary accused, identified as Sukhraj Singh alias Ganga from Patti in Tarn Taran district and Karamjit Singh from Gurdaspur district, were apprehended in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, on Sunday. The operation was conducted in coordination with local police and central agencies.
The duo was produced before a court in Raipur and, after obtaining transit remand, were taken into custody. They are currently being brought to Amritsar for a detailed investigation into the crime.
Support Network Dismantled in Punjab
In addition to the shooters, the police have arrested five other suspects from various locations across Punjab. According to the DGP, these individuals were allegedly involved in providing crucial support and logistical assistance for the execution of the murder.
The victim, Jarmal Singh, the sarpanch of Valthoa village in Tarn Taran, was shot at point-blank range during a wedding function on January 4. Disturbing CCTV footage from the venue captured the assailants entering the premises. One of them is seen firing directly at Singh's head before both flee the scene. Despite being rushed to a hospital, the sarpanch succumbed to his injuries.
Political Repercussions and Criticism
The shocking daylight murder quickly escalated into a political firestorm. The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched a sharp attack on the ruling AAP government, questioning the deteriorating law and order in Punjab. The BJP went as far as to demand the resignation of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, holding his administration responsible for the security lapse.
While the recent arrests mark a crucial step in the investigation, the case continues to highlight the challenges of political violence and crime in the state. The Punjab Police's swift inter-state operation to nab the alleged shooters will be closely watched as the legal process unfolds.
