Batala, Punjab (National Times): In a dramatic escalation of gang-related violence in Punjab, Harjit Kaur, the mother of jailed gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, and his close associate Karanvir were shot dead on Thursday night near their residence in the Urban Estate area of Batala.
According to Batala SSP Suhail Qasim Mir, the incident occurred when unidentified assailants on a motorcycle opened fire indiscriminately on the duo as they neared their home. Karanvir, who was reportedly the son of an Assistant Sub-Inspector in the Punjab Police, died on the spot. Harjit Kaur, critically injured in the attack, was rushed to a nearby hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
The victims were reportedly returning from Tarn Taran after attending a court-related matter when they were ambushed. Police launched a massive manhunt in the area shortly after the shooting but, as of now, no arrests have been made.
A chilling twist emerged when a viral social media post surfaced shortly after the murders. In it, two Haryana-based gangsters, Prabhu Dasuwal and Kaushal Chaudhary — alleged members of the Bambiha gang, claimed responsibility for the killings. The post, shared widely online, stated that the attack was carried out to avenge the death of their associate, Gore Baryar.
The message also suggested that Karanvir was the intended target and not Harjit Kaur. The post alleged that Karanvir managed fugitive operations, weapons, and finances for Jaggu Bhagwanpuria’s gang, and declared that his killing was a “justified” act of retaliation.
“We — Doni Bal Billa Manga, Prabhu Dasuwal, and Kaushal Chaudhary, take responsibility for Karan’s murder in Batala,” the post read. “He was running Jaggu’s operations… Today we have avenged our brother Gore Baryar.”
The post went further, warning that any future attacks on their associates would invite deadly retribution, adding, “From now on, if any of our brothers are wrongfully killed, be ready to pay the price.”
SSP Suhail Qasim Mir confirmed that the police are investigating the viral claims and examining the authenticity and origin of the social media post. However, no official confirmation has been made about the alleged connection between the attackers and the Bambiha gang.
The incident marks a fresh wave of gang rivalry in Punjab, where targeted killings tied to underworld feuds and vendettas continue to challenge law enforcement and alarm the public.
A high-level investigation is currently underway. Authorities have appealed for public cooperation and any information that could lead to the identification and arrest of the shooters.
