Published 15:31 IST, November 23rd 2023
Policeman killed, two others injured after Nihangs open fire in Punjab
Senior officials have rushed to the site and police personnel in large numbers have been deployed in the area
Punjab: A police constable was killed in a tragic altercation with a group of Nihang Sikhs in the Kapurthala district. Three others were injured as well. The incident took place in Sultanpur Lodhi when the police came to arrest some Nihangas in connection to a registered case. The Nihangs forcibly captured a Gurudwara in the district. According to sources, 30-35 Nihangs are inside the Gurudwara and have locked it from inside. They used the .315 rifle for firing on the police.
Tejbir Singh Hundal, Superintendent of Police (Headquarters), Kapurthala, informed that the Nihangs targeted the police officers while they were positioned on the road. After taking over a gurudwara with force, the armed group opened fire on the police when they asked them to vacate.
One constable tragically died from gunshot wounds during the altercation, and three others were hurt. The police have cordoned off the area as the Nihangs are still firing from the gurudwara's terrace.
Senior officials have rushed to the site and police personnel in large numbers have been deployed in the area.
Compensation for the deceased announced, sec 145 imposed
As per the sources, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has declared compensation of one crore rupees for the deceased police officer's family. This amount will be transferred to the martyr's family from his insurance company via bank transfer.
Section 145 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CRPC) has also been imposed in the area, putting the administration in charge of the Gurdwara. Following the altercation, nine people were injured, including six police officers and three Nihang Sikhs. Unfortunately, one police officer was killed in the exchange of fire.
In response to the tense situation, a large police presence has been deployed to evacuate the Gurdwara premises. The situation is still evolving as authorities work towards restoring order and ensuring the safety of all individuals involved.
Updated 15:31 IST, November 23rd 2023