Family Demands Justice After Teen Killed in Gurdaspur Police Encounter
Gurdaspur: The family members of 19-year-old Ranjit Singh, who was fatally shot in a police encounter, staged a protest in Gurdaspur on Sunday, calling for justice and a thorough investigation into his death. The encounter is connected to the February 22 murder of two policemen in the district.
Protest Details and Demands
The demonstration, which included relatives of two other accused individuals—Dilawar Singh and Inderjit Singh—as well as political activists, social workers, and farmer leaders, was later lifted after the family expressed willingness to engage with authorities. Ranjit Singh's uncle, Harwinder Singh, addressed the media, stating that the family has placed their demands before relevant officials and will discuss next steps, including the post-mortem examination, with police.
He emphasized the need for a high-level inquiry, such as by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), into the encounter. "If any police personnel are found guilty, strict action must be taken, including suspension," Harwinder Singh asserted, confirming that the protest has been temporarily suspended pending further discussions.
Background of the Case
On the morning of February 22, two policemen were discovered shot dead at a police post in Gurdaspur. In response, police launched an investigation that led to several arrests and an encounter. Key events include:
- February 24: Dilawar Singh, 19, from Ali Nangal village, was arrested in connection with the murders.
- February 25: Ranjit Singh was killed in a police encounter near Puranashala village, approximately 8 kilometers from Gurdaspur on the Gurdaspur-Mukerian road.
- February 27: Inderjit Singh, 21, was arrested from Amritsar, marking the third accused in the case.
The protest highlights growing concerns over police procedures and accountability in such encounters, with the family seeking clarity and justice for Ranjit Singh's death.
