Ex-Serviceman Allegedly Shoots Grandson in Mandi Family Dispute
A shocking incident of domestic violence unfolded in the Lohara panchayat of Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, late on Sunday, March 23, 2026, when a 73-year-old ex-serviceman allegedly opened fire at his 23-year-old grandson. The accused, identified as Bahadur Singh, was reportedly under the influence of alcohol at the time, escalating a family argument into a violent confrontation that has left the victim fighting for his life.
Details of the Violent Altercation
According to police reports, the altercation began when Bahadur Singh, known to have a history of abusing family members while intoxicated, started verbally assaulting his relatives, including his grandson Umesh Chaudhary. The situation quickly deteriorated into a physical scuffle, during which, in a fit of rage, Singh retrieved his licensed firearm and discharged it at Umesh. The gunshot inflicted severe injuries on the young man, who was immediately rushed to the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI) in Chandigarh in critical condition.
In the chaotic aftermath, family members retaliated by physically assaulting Bahadur Singh. He sustained injuries and was subsequently admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Bilaspur for treatment. This dual hospitalization underscores the tragic and volatile nature of the incident, which has left both the victim and the accused requiring medical attention.
Police Investigation and Legal Actions
Mandi Superintendent of Police Vinod Kumar confirmed that law enforcement has taken swift action in response to the shooting. A formal case has been registered against Bahadur Singh under charges of attempted murder and violations of the Arms Act. Authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation to piece together the exact sequence of events and gather evidence. The involvement of a licensed firearm adds a layer of complexity to the case, raising questions about gun safety and domestic conflict management.
The incident highlights the severe consequences of alcohol-fueled domestic disputes, particularly in households with access to weapons. It serves as a grim reminder of how personal conflicts can spiral into life-threatening situations, necessitating urgent attention from both law enforcement and social services to prevent such tragedies in the future.
