Punjab shop owner shot dead

In Punjab’s Bathinda, Harjinder Singh Johal, a shopkeeper known for his “Amritsari kulcha” outlet, was fatally shot outside his store by two unidentified assailants on Saturday. The CCTV footage shows the attackers arriving on a motorcycle and firing at Mr. Johal before speeding away. Despite being rushed to a government hospital, his injuries were too severe, and he was referred to Max Hospital, where he succumbed.

A worker at Mr. Johal’s shop, Dipu, recounted the terrifying moment, stating he heard gunshots and saw Mr. Johal shouting for help. Although he attempted to chase the assailants, they escaped on their motorcycle.

DSP Kuldeep Brar from Bathinda Police is leading the investigation, with two suspects identified so far. Opposition leaders have criticized the AAP-led government in Punjab, with SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal demanding immediate action, citing a worrying rise in such incidents.