6 February 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : A senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader was shot dead in broad daylight outside a gurdwara in Punjab, triggering shockwaves across the state and raising serious concerns over law and order. The incident, which was captured on CCTV cameras, occurred in a busy area and has intensified political and public debate over rising crime and targeted violence.
According to police officials, the AAP leader was standing near the entrance of the gurdwara when unidentified assailants opened fire at close range. The attackers reportedly arrived on a motorcycle, fired multiple shots, and fled the scene within seconds. The victim collapsed on the spot and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.
CCTV footage from the area has emerged as a crucial piece of evidence in the investigation. The visuals reportedly show two masked men approaching the leader, firing at him, and escaping swiftly. Police teams are analysing the footage frame by frame to identify the attackers, trace their route, and determine whether the killing was premeditated.
The murder took place during daytime hours when the area was busy with devotees and local residents, adding to the sense of fear and outrage. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as people ran for cover after hearing gunshots. The fact that the attack occurred outside a religious place has further deepened public anger.
Senior police officers said multiple teams have been formed to investigate the case from all angles. Preliminary findings suggest the killing may be a targeted attack rather than a random act of violence. Investigators are examining possible personal enmity, political rivalry, and criminal links as potential motives.
Soon after the incident, senior AAP leaders condemned the killing and demanded swift action against the perpetrators. Party leaders described the murder as an attack on democracy and public representatives, urging the state government to ensure justice and improve public safety.
The killing has also sparked sharp political reactions from opposition parties, who accused the ruling establishment of failing to control crime in Punjab. They pointed to a recent spate of shootings, extortion cases, and targeted killings as evidence of deteriorating law and order in the state.
State government officials, however, assured that strict action would be taken and that no one involved would be spared. They said law enforcement agencies are working under tight timelines and that arrests are expected soon. Police checkpoints have been set up in nearby areas, and vehicle movement is being closely monitored.
Security has been tightened across the district, particularly around sensitive locations and residences of political leaders. Additional police deployment has been ordered to prevent any further incidents and to reassure the public.
Legal experts noted that CCTV evidence could play a decisive role in the case if the attackers are clearly identifiable. However, they cautioned that such crimes often involve planned escape routes and support networks, making investigations complex.
Local residents expressed fear and frustration, saying that daylight shootings have become increasingly common. Many questioned how armed attackers could operate so freely in public spaces. Community leaders urged authorities to act decisively to restore confidence and prevent further violence.
The victim’s family members demanded justice and said they expect the government to ensure the culprits are brought to book at the earliest. Supporters and party workers gathered at the hospital and later at the leader’s residence, raising slogans and calling for accountability.
The incident once again highlights the challenge Punjab faces in tackling organised crime and gun violence. Analysts say improved intelligence gathering, faster policing response, and stronger coordination between agencies are crucial to curb such incidents.
As the investigation continues, the CCTV footage remains central to piecing together the sequence of events. Police have appealed to the public to share any additional information that could help identify the attackers.
The killing of a political leader in such a public and symbolic location has left the state shaken. With public pressure mounting, the coming days will be critical in determining how quickly authorities can deliver justice and whether the incident becomes a turning point in Punjab’s fight against crime.
Summary
A Punjab AAP leader was shot dead outside a gurdwara in broad daylight, an attack caught on CCTV, sparking political outrage and renewed concerns over law and order in the state.