Tarn Taran AAP sarpanch murder: Lakhbir Landa claims responsibility, 7 under police detention
Harpinder Singh, the sarpanch of Thathian Mahantan village and affiliated with AAP, was shot dead on Wednesday afternoon during a wedding ceremony at a farmhouse in Tarn Taran
PTC Web Desk: The murder of an AAP sarpanch in Punjab’s Tarn Taran district has taken a dramatic turn after Canada-based gangster Lakhbir Landa Harike allegedly claimed responsibility for the killing through a viral social media post.
In the message circulating online, Landa linked the attack to an old enmity and issued fresh threats. Police officials said they are verifying the authenticity of the post while continuing their investigation into the case.
The victim, 45-year-old Harpinder Singh, was the sarpanch of Thathian Mahantan village and affiliated with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). He was shot dead on Wednesday afternoon during a wedding ceremony at a farmhouse in Tarn Taran.
According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers entered the venue disguised as wedding guests. Singh had reportedly just finished dancing on stage and was seated with friends when one of the assailants emerged from the crowd and fired four shots at close range, hitting him in the head and abdomen. He collapsed on the spot and was declared dead.
As panic spread across the venue, Singh’s cousin Germanjeet Singh chased the attackers but was shot in the leg during the pursuit. He has been admitted to a private hospital in Amritsar and is said to be stable.
Police sources indicate that at least two shooters were involved. Initial reports suggest the use of sophisticated weapons, including a semi-automatic rifle resembling an AK-47 and a 9mm pistol. CCTV footage from the farmhouse is being scanned to identify the assailants and trace their escape route.
In the aftermath of the incident, Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav suspended the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) of Patti and the Station House Officer (SHO) of Sarhali police station over alleged negligence in maintaining security.
Punjab Cabinet Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar visited the hospital and assured the bereaved family that strict action would be taken against those responsible. He said multiple teams have been deployed to arrest the accused and that the state government would not spare those involved.
SSP Surindra Lamba stated that four police teams are actively conducting raids. He added that no prior threat calls had been reported by the victim and that investigators are probing whether the killing was the result of personal rivalry with possible gang links.
Reacting sharply, SAD leader Bikram Singh Majithia criticised the state government, alleging a collapse of law and order and demanding accountability from the Chief Minister and top police officials.
Harpinder Singh is survived by his wife and two sons, aged 8 and 11. The brazen attack at a public function has once again highlighted concerns over gang influence and security in Punjab’s border districts.
The investigation is ongoing and further details are awaited.