Amritsar, July 8 – A long-simmering neighbourhood rivalry turned fatal late Monday night when former Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) sarpanch Palwinder Singh was shot dead in Saidupur village, under the Raja Sansi area of Punjab’s Amritsar district.
According to police, the suspected shooter, identified as Shubham Masih—a resident of the house next door—allegedly opened fire during a confrontation around midnight. The dispute began when Palwinder Singh placed a ladder to assist an electrician fixing a power line. Shubham reportedly came out, threw down the ladder, and, in the ensuing argument, drew his licensed revolver and fired seven rounds. Three bullets struck Palwinder, killing him on the spot.
“The murder appears to be the result of prolonged personal enmity between the two families,” said Investigation Officer Baghel Singh. “There had been multiple previous altercations, including incidents involving property damage and disputes over car parking.”
Palwinder’s son, Amritpal Singh, told reporters that relations between the families had been strained for months. “There was no communication between us recently,” he said. “Just last month, Shubham smashed our car’s windows. We had already lodged a complaint with the police.”
Following the shooting, Shubham Masih fled the scene. Police reached the location soon after, took custody of the body, and sent it for post-mortem. A case has been registered against Shubham and his wife based on the family’s statement.
“We are conducting raids and have launched a manhunt to apprehend the accused,” police officials said, adding that teams were combing surrounding areas.
