Man arrested for firing at Cong workers; aides at large

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, December 16

Sarabjit Singh, former Chogawan Block Samiti chairman and close aide of senior Akali leader Veer Singh Lopoke, has been arrested for allegedly attacking Congress workers while they were canvassing for the panchayat elections.

The incident occurred in Lodhi Gujjar village here on Saturday. Complainant Mangal Singh of the Congress is contesting for the position of sarpanch from the village.

Besides Sarabjit Singh, others who have been booked include Nishan Singh, Gurbax Singh, Balor Singh, Harpreet Singh and Amritpal Singh, all residents of Lodhi Gujjar village.

Mangal Singh stated to the police that he, along with his supporters Hardeep Singh, Gurjit Singh, Mandeep Singh, Nishan Singh and Sukhdev Singh, was canvassing in Nathupura village. When they reached outside the residence of Sukhchain Singh, the accused came in an SUV and had a brawl with them. Mangal alleged that they threatened them and, meanwhile, Sarabjit Singh took out his .315 bore rifle and opened fire which missed the target, hitting a wall. He said they had to run away to save themselves. The accused ran away from the spot.

A case under Sections 307, 506, 148, 149 of the IPC and 25, 27, 54, 59 of the Arms Act has been registered in this connection. Investigating Officer Balwinder Singh said Sarabjit Singh was arrested while raids were on to nab others who had been absconding.