New Delhi: A food delivery agent was shot dead and his friend injured after an alleged altercation with a police constable in the Dwarka area of the national capital, police said on Sunday. The incident has sparked outrage among locals and the victim’s family, who have demanded immediate arrest and strict action against the accused.
The shooting took place in Jaffarpur Kalan village in Dwarka during the early hours of Sunday. The deceased has been identified as Pandav Kumar (21), while his friend Krishan sustained injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital.
Altercation turns fatal
According to police, the victims had attended a birthday party of a two year old child at a friend’s residence earlier in the night. After the celebration, they were standing on the road and speaking with others before leaving.
At this point, the accused identified by the family as Neeraj, allegedly a head constable with the Delhi Police reportedly came out of his house located across the road and got into a verbal argument with them.
During the altercation, the accused allegedly opened fire at close range. Police said the bullet struck Pandav Kumar in the chest, piercing through his body and exiting before hitting Krishan, who was sitting pillion on a motorcycle, in the abdomen.
Victim declared dead, friend hospitalised
Both victims were rushed to a nearby hospital immediately after the incident. However, doctors declared Pandav Kumar dead on arrival. Krishan is currently receiving treatment for his injuries and is said to be stable.
Police have registered a case and launched a search operation to trace the accused, who fled the spot after the firing. Officials said efforts are underway to apprehend him at the earliest.
Family alleges unprovoked attack
The victim’s family has alleged that the shooting was unprovoked and that the accused opened fire suddenly after a brief argument. They claimed that Pandav Kumar had no role in escalating the situation.
“I want justice for my son. He was innocent and had gone to attend a birthday party. He was working hard to support the family,” the victim’s mother said, demanding strict punishment for the accused.
Family members further stated that Kumar was the sole earning member of the household and worked as a food delivery partner to support his family financially.
Protests and demand for justice
Following the incident, family members and local residents gathered at the Jaffarpur Kalan police station, demanding swift action against the accused. Protesters called for his immediate arrest and a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to the firing.
A relative of the deceased said, “My brother did nothing. The bullet went through his body and even injured another person. The accused must be arrested immediately.”
Investigation underway
Police said the accused is a native of Bahu Akbarpur village in Meham, Rohtak district of Haryana, and has been living alone in the area for several years. However, officials have not yet officially confirmed his designation within the force.
Authorities added that the sequence of events leading to the altercation is being closely examined, and further investigation is ongoing.
Conclusion
The incident has raised serious concerns over the use of force and accountability within law enforcement. As the search for the accused continues, the case has drawn attention to the need for swift justice and transparency. The outcome of the investigation will be crucial in addressing the concerns raised by the victim’s family and the local community.