Ludhiana, November 2 — A tense calm prevailed in Giddarwindi village on Saturday as the family of 25-year-old kabaddi player Tejpal Singh refused to perform his last rites, insisting that cremation would not take place until his killers were caught.
Tejpal, a rising local player known for his agility on the field, was shot dead near Dr Hari Singh Hans Maternity Hospital on Friday evening. The attack took place within sight of the Ludhiana (Rural) SSP’s office, leaving the local community stunned.
Villagers gathered outside his home through the night, joining the family in their demand for immediate arrests. “He was our village’s pride,” said a relative. “We cannot light his pyre until justice is done.”
Tejpal’s mother, clutching her son’s photograph, broke down repeatedly. “He had no enemies. My son never hurt anyone. Why did they take him from me?” she cried.
Police have named three primary suspects — Honey and Kala from Rumi village, and Gagan from Moga — along with two accomplices. SSP Ankur Gupta said special teams had been deployed to trace them. “We are analysing CCTV footage and mobile locations. Raids are ongoing, and arrests will be made soon,” he noted.
Soon after the murder, a Facebook account under the name “Jassu Koom” claimed responsibility, linking it to an old enmity. However, police said the post was fake. “Some people are trying to sensationalise the incident online. The killing was not gang-related,” the SSP clarified.
The family continues to wait beside Tejpal’s body as police press ahead with the manhunt. “We will not cremate him till they are caught,” his uncle said, his voice firm but weary. “Justice must come before farewell.”
