AAP Leader Shot Dead in Punjab

In a shocking act of violence, Lucky Oberoi, a prominent leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), was shot dead in broad daylight in Jalandhar, Punjab, on Friday, 6 January. The incident occurred outside a gurdwara in the city's Model Town area, sending waves of fear and outrage across the state.

According to preliminary reports, Oberoi was parking his car outside the gurdwara when two unidentified assailants on a motorcycle opened fire on him. He was struck by five bullets, sustaining critical injuries. He was immediately rushed to a private hospital, but despite emergency treatment, he succumbed to his injuries.

Police officials reached the scene promptly and initiated a detailed investigation. They are examining CCTV footage and canvassing witnesses in an attempt to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. The neighbourhood remains tense, with residents expressing alarm at the audacity of the attack.

Oberoi’s family has a longstanding association with politics. His wife had previously contested municipal elections as an AAP candidate, highlighting the couple's active engagement in local governance and public service. Oberoi’s assassination has intensified debates over law and order in Punjab, sparking criticism from both the opposition and ruling party members.

Political Reactions and Criticism

The killing has drawn sharp condemnation from opposition leaders, who accuse the Punjab government of failing to maintain law and order. Pratap Singh Bajwa, leader of the opposition in the Punjab Legislative Assembly, stated:

"Law and order in the state has completely broken down. If leaders of the ruling party are not safe, how can ordinary citizens expect security?"

Leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiromani Akali Dal also condemned the attack. BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla and Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia alleged that the state has effectively become a safe haven for gangsters, holding the Punjab government accountable for the rising crime rate.

The incident has prompted calls for urgent measures to restore public safety. Police have reportedly increased patrolling in Model Town and surrounding areas, and checkpoints have been set up to prevent further violence.

Key Details of the Attack

The assassination of Oberoi in broad daylight underscores the urgent need for effective policing and strengthened security measures in Punjab. As investigations continue, the incident has become a focal point in debates over public safety and governance ahead of the forthcoming electoral season.