Amritsar, 27 October (H.S.): Tirath Singh, brother of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Karaj Singh, was allegedly shot dead over an old rivalry in Jhite Kalan village of Amritsar rural district on Monday night. His friend, Ranjit Singh, also sustained a gunshot injury in the attack.

According to the police, the two were returning after paying obeisance at the village gurdwara when the assailants allegedly opened fire on them, firing seven to eight rounds before fleeing the scene.

Tirath Singh sustained serious injuries and was rushed to a hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead. Ranjit Singh was admitted for treatment, and his condition was stated to be out of danger.

Amritsar Rural Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kanwalpreet Singh Chahal said four persons Gurdit Singh, Harkirat Singh, Gurjant Singh and Gora, all residents of the same village had been booked in connection with the case. Police teams are conducting raids to arrest the accused.

According to the police, Gurdit Singh allegedly had an old grudge against Karaj Singh and his family. The two sides had reportedly clashed earlier, but villagers had intervened to resolve the dispute.

On Monday night, the accused allegedly confronted Tirath Singh and his friend near the gurdwara. An argument reportedly escalated into a physical altercation, following which Gurdit Singh’s accomplices allegedly joined in and opened fire on Tirath Singh before fleeing the spot.

Karaj Singh is a block samiti member, while his mother is the village sarpanch affiliated with the Aam Aadmi Party.

Based on statements given by the victim’s family members, the police at Chatiwind police station registered a case against the four accused. Further investigation is underway.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH