Punjab Newsline | Batala
A minor argument over overtaking a vehicle turned into a deadly shootout in Batala, Punjab's Gurdaspur district, leaving one Nihang Sikh dead and three young men injured.
The incident occurred near Simbal Chowk on the Batala-Gurdaspur Road, where two groups reportedly got into a heated exchange after a dispute over crossing vehicles on the highway. What began as a verbal altercation quickly escalated into a violent confrontation.
According to eyewitnesses, local residents initially tried to intervene and calm the situation. However, the dispute intensified when three youths travelling in a Toyota Fortuner allegedly pulled out their licensed pistols and opened fire on the other party.
The sudden gunfire triggered panic in the busy market area, forcing pedestrians and shopkeepers to run for safety. In response, a Nihang Sikh identified as Deepinder Singh, who was travelling in the other vehicle, reportedly drew his licensed pistol and returned fire in self-defense.
During the exchange of gunfire, Deepinder Singh sustained fatal gunshot injuries and died on the spot. Meanwhile, all three occupants of the Fortuner were also hit by bullets during the cross-firing. The injured youths were rushed to a nearby hospital, where one of them is said to be in critical condition.
Police have registered a case and launched an investigation. Officers are collecting evidence from the scene and examining the circumstances that led to the fatal shooting. Further legal action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
