A land dispute turned violent in Chela village in Tarn Taran district on Wednesday, after the sitting sarpanch was shot during an altercation over illegal ploughing of panchayat land. The incident has sparked unrest in the area, prompting a heavy police presence and calls for swift justice.
The accused, identified as Jajbir Singh, allegedly opened fire on the sarpanch when he attempted to stop him from forcibly cultivating disputed community land. Eyewitnesses reported that a heated exchange occurred when Jasbir Singh tried to illegally cultivate the disputed panchayat land and when the Sarpanch confronted him, Jasbir opened fire.
The injured sarpanch was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital and is currently undergoing treatment for serious gunshot wounds.
“He was trying to seize the land unlawfully. When the sarpanch opposed him, he shot him in broad daylight. We want justice,” said a local villager. Residents claim Jajbir Singh had been attempting to take control of the land for some time, despite repeated opposition from the village leadership.
Following the attack, a large contingent of police arrived at the scene to maintain order and begin a thorough investigation. The authorities are recording statements from witnesses and have cordoned off the area to prevent any further flare-ups.
“A case has been registered and teams are working to trace and apprehend the accused. No one will be allowed to take the law into their own hands,” a senior police official stated.
The incident has triggered outrage among villagers, who are demanding the immediate arrest of Jajbir Singh and the filing of an attempt-to-murder charge.
“This is not just a personal attack—it’s an attack on democratic governance and the authority of elected representatives,” said a community elder.
Police officials confirmed that a case has been registered and efforts are on to apprehend the accused. “No one will be allowed to take the law into their hands,” a senior police officer assured.
The situation in Chela village remains tense, with additional police forces stationed in the area as a precaution. Investigations are ongoing.
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