NRI opens fire at social worker in Punjab's Phillaur; 1 injured, cops hunt for accused

Panic gripped Phillaur on Saturday late evening when an NRI youth allegedly pointed a pistol at a social worker, Mandeep Singh Dosanjh, and shot one of his associates, leaving him seriously injured.

According to police sources, the accused has been identified as Rahul, a resident of Lakkar Mandi, Phillaur, who recently returned from abroad. The incident occurred at Atwal Colony, outside Dosanjh’s residence, popularly known as Atwal House.

Witnesses reported that Rahul arrived at Dosanjh’s home under the pretext of purchasing property. After entering the house, he asked Mandeep to step outside for a discussion. The situation turned violent when Rahul suddenly drew a pistol and aimed it at Dosanjh.

At that moment, Dosanjh’s associate, Sanjeev Kumar alias Pandit, intervened and attempted to overpower the assailant. In the ensuing scuffle, Rahul fired a shot, which struck Pandit in the leg. Immediately after firing, the accused fled the scene along with an accomplice in a black Thar SUV.

The injured, Sanjeev, was rushed to the Phillaur Civil Hospital by locals and police personnel. Given the severity of his injuries, doctors referred him to Ludhiana for advanced treatment. His condition is reported to be critical but stable.

Upon receiving information, DSP Sarwan Singh Bal and SHO Aman Saini arrived at the spot with a police team. The authorities cordoned off the area, reviewed CCTV footage, and launched checkpoints across the district to trace the vehicle.

DSP Bal confirmed that shooter Rahul was an NRI who had recently returned to India. “The accused has been identified, and a lookout circular has been issued across all airports to prevent his escape from the country,” the officer said.

The police have registered a case of attempt to murder and illegal possession of a firearm. Multiple teams have been deployed to trace the suspect’s whereabouts, and raids are being conducted in Phillaur and surrounding areas.

The authorities have also appealed to the public to share any information related to the accused or the vehicle used in the escape.

The shocking incident has stirred concern in the local community, as Mandeep Singh Dosanjh is a respected social worker known for his involvement in public welfare and charitable activities.

Police sources confirmed that investigations were on and that swift action would be taken once the accused is apprehended.