Shiv Sena leader shot dead in Khanna

Two unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants on Saturday gunned down Punjab Shiv Sena’s labour wing chief Durga Prasad Gupta at Lalehi Chowk in Khanna.

Two unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants on Saturday gunned down Punjab Shiv Sena’s labour wing chief Durga Prasad Gupta at Lalehi Chowk in Khanna.

This is not the first attack on right-wing leaders, especially from Shiv Sena, in Punjab in the last one year. (AFP PHOTO)

Gupta, 28, who was provided security by Punjab Police, was alone when the attack took place near his office.

Heavy police force was deployed in the area as the killing triggered outrage with Shiv Sena and other Hindu organisations blocking traffic on the national highway demanding immediate arrest of accused.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjiv Ghanauli gave a call for Khanna bandh on Sunday.

Sources said the incident occurred around 6.15 pm. Gupta, who was inside his office along with his gunman and party workers, got a call on his mobile phone following which he left his office on his motorcycle, saying that he will be back soon. He didn’t take his gunman along. As he reached Lalhedi Chowk, Gupta was intercepted by two assailants, who had their faces covered with a piece of cloth.

The attackers then pumped two bullets into his chest from point-blank range and fled. Gupta died on the spot.

Ludhiana range deputy inspector general SK Kalia said it could be a case of personal enmity.

He, however, claimed the police will arrest the accused soon.

Clueless cops