Amritsar youth shot dead in Canada’s Edmonton; family alleges discrimination, seeks justice
Birinder Singh, a resident of Amritsar, was the only son of his parents
PTC Web Desk: In a tragic incident, a 22-year-old youth from Punjab’s Amritsar was shot dead in Canada, sending shockwaves through his family and the Indian community abroad. The deceased has been identified as Birinder Singh, who had moved to Canada three years ago on a study visa in pursuit of a better future.
The incident occurred on March 14 near Leduc on Highway 2, close to Edmonton in Alberta. According to available information, Birinder was on a long drive with friends when another vehicle began following them and appeared to be racing alongside. After some time, the vehicle overtook them and suddenly stopped in front.
As per statements from his friends, an individual in the other car rolled down the window and gestured towards them. Birinder and his companions responded with a wave, but moments later, the assailant allegedly opened fire. Birinder was struck by a bullet and died on the spot.
The local police have launched an investigation into the incident and are searching for the unidentified assailant. However, the motive behind the attack remains unclear.
The victim’s family has alleged that the killing may be linked to discrimination. His brother claimed that incidents of bias against Punjabi Sikhs are rising in Canada. Birinder’s father said his son was an Amritdhari Sikh who proudly wore a turban and believes he may have been targeted because of his identity. The family has demanded strict action against those responsible.
Birinder Singh, a resident of Amritsar, was the only son of his parents. After completing his studies, he had been working in the construction sector in Alberta and was reportedly well-settled, striving to achieve his dreams through hard work.
Meanwhile, friends of the deceased have initiated a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to repatriate his body to India, enabling his grieving family to perform his last rites.