Priest’s Son Killed in Shocking Daylight Attack
The Punjab court shooting in Abohar shook the Fazilka district on Thursday morning. Moreover, the attack exposed major gaps in security inside a busy judicial complex. The victim, Golu Pandit, the son of Jodi Temple priest Avnish Pandit, was shot dead around 10.30 am. The murder took place in the Abohar court complex while the premises were crowded with lawyers, staff, and visitors.
Golu had come for a hearing in an Arms Act case. He arrived with his friend Sonu and a few others. However, moments after he stepped out of the courtroom, unidentified assailants fired multiple shots at him. The attackers fled in a white car, sparking panic among witnesses.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Fazilka, Gurmeet Singh, reached the court complex shortly after the incident. He confirmed that one assailant opened fire while two others waited in the car.
Police Suspect Gang Rivalry; Assailants “Almost Identified”
According to SSP Singh, the firing appeared to be the result of inter-gang rivalry. He noted that Golu had six or seven cases pending against him. Additionally, the attackers also have criminal records. He said the police have “almost identified the assailants” but refused to reveal names due to the early stage of the investigation.
“While he was coming out after the hearing, a few unidentified assailants came in a white car and fired four or five rounds at him. He was taken to a hospital, where he succumbed to injuries,” the SSP stated. Moreover, he assured strict action and promised that police would not allow anyone to “take the law into their own hands.”
The shooting occurred in the parking area of the court complex. Witnesses said the sudden gunfire created chaos and fear. The incident prompted the deployment of heavy security at both the court and the hospital.
Local BJP leader Subodh Verma said the attack revealed a frightening lack of fear among criminals. “The firing happened when courts are bustling with activity. This shows the culprits have no fear of the police,” he said.
Recent Shootings Highlight Rising Crime Concerns in the Region
The Punjab court shooting is the latest in a series of violent crimes in Abohar and nearby districts. The region has seen several targeted killings and firing incidents in recent months, raising concerns among residents and political leaders.
In July, well-known businessman Sanjay Verma of Wear Well Garments was shot dead by bike-borne assailants in Abohar’s main market. Moreover, on November 15, RSS volunteer Naveen Arora was murdered in neighbouring Ferozepur district.
Another alarming incident occurred on December 2, when bike-borne attackers opened fire on a Punjab Roadways bus in Ferozepur. Although no passengers were injured, the police linked the attack to personal enmity. The firing still caused panic because the bus carried nearly 25 passengers.
These repeated shootings have led residents to question the effectiveness of law-and-order measures. Security experts say gangs in the region have become more aggressive. Additionally, they often carry out attacks even in public places.
The Punjab Police have increased patrols and surveillance in high-risk zones. However, residents believe stronger action is needed to stop organised criminal groups.