Ludhiana: Former Manewal village sarpanch and Shiromani Akali Dal leader Navtej Singh alias Neetu was shot dead by two motorcycle borne assailants in Ludhiana on Saturday evening, in a targeted attack that has left police investigating a suspected family land dispute.
Singh, around 60, was travelling alone in his Toyota Innova when the attackers allegedly intercepted his vehicle in the Ladhowal area and opened fire before escaping on a motorcycle. Multiple rounds were fired at the vehicle. Police and media reports have put the number at anywhere between around seven and 13, while the exact number of bullets that struck Singh is expected to be established through the post mortem examination.
The attack was reportedly captured by the Innova’s dashcam, giving investigators potentially crucial footage of the shooting and the assailants. Police are also examining CCTV recordings from the surrounding area and evidence recovered from the crime scene.
Singh was rushed to Dayanand Medical College and Hospital after the firing but was declared dead by doctors. Police said the incident took place while he was returning from Manewal towards his city residence. Reports have placed the attack near the Ladhowal bypass area.
Family alleges planned killing
Singh’s son, Alamjit Singh, an advocate, has alleged that the killing was pre planned and linked to a long running land dispute involving members of the extended family. He named eight people in his complaint, including his uncle Pal Singh, other family members and the current village head.
Alamjit alleged that he and his father had been threatened several times and said court cases relating to the disputed land were already pending. Police have registered a case and are investigating the allegations.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (West) Jatinderpal Singh said a land dispute within the extended family had emerged as a suspected motive during the preliminary investigation. Police have said several accused have been booked, while efforts are continuing to identify and apprehend those responsible for the shooting.
Political background
Navtej Singh had served as sarpanch of Manewal village during the Shiromani Akali Dal Bharatiya Janata Party government in Punjab. Police said he later extended political support to both the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party.
Investigators are examining the land dispute angle along with other possible motives. The identities of the two shooters and the circumstances behind the alleged attack remain under investigation.