Ludhiana, Jan 5: A long-running rivalry between two groups, fuelled by online abuse and social media trolling, led to a violent clash and firing in Ludhiana’s Tibba area late Saturday night, police said.
A 22-year-old youth, Balraj Chauhan, was shot in the back during the confrontation in Shakti Nagar and is currently undergoing treatment at Christian Medical College and Hospital (CMCH). His condition is stable, police said.
The incident occurred around midnight when members of both groups gathered at the spot after days of provocative exchanges on Instagram, including internet banging and trolling, officials said.
“This was an old rivalry. The groups had clashed earlier as well, and the hostility continued online before turning violent,” said Sub-Inspector Amarjit Singh, SHO of Tibba police station.
According to police, both groups arrived armed with knives and other sharp-edged weapons, while one faction was also carrying a firearm. During the clash, a shot was fired, injuring Balraj.
Police were alerted after locals heard gunfire and stepped out of their homes. Eyewitnesses told police that several youths were seen wielding sharp weapons during the incident.
Three accused — Kaka, Vishu and China — have been identified so far, and police said cases would be registered against members of both factions involved.
“Kaka is already facing a firing-related case,” SI Amarjit Singh said. “The criminal background of the remaining suspects is being verified, and more arrests are expected as the investigation continues.”
Police said further action will be taken once the injured youth’s statement is recorded.
