Controversial Encounter: AAP MLA Pathanmajra Alleges 'Fake Killing' in Punjab Shootout, Demands High-Level Inquiry

The tranquil atmosphere of Pathanmajra village in Punjab's Barnala district has been shattered by a controversial police encounter that left two alleged gangsters dead. However, the narrative presented by the authorities is now facing fierce scrutiny from a prominent voice: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Labh Singh Ugoke, who represents the Pathanmajra constituency.

Ugoke has outright denied the police's account of a standard encounter, leveling serious allegations that the incident was, in fact, a "fake encounter."

According to police reports, the encounter unfolded following a tip-off regarding the presence of notorious gangsters Rupinder Gandhi and Rajbir Singh.

The police claim they were met with gunfire from the alleged criminals, prompting a retaliatory response that resulted in the deaths of both individuals. A third alleged accomplice, Lovepreet Singh, was reportedly apprehended during the operation. This gang, police assert, was deeply involved in drug trafficking and various murder cases, including the killing of Sukhbir Singh.

However, MLA Ugoke's version starkly contradicts the official statement, casting a long shadow of doubt over the entire operation.

He vehemently denies that the police fired from a close distance, suggesting instead that the alleged gangsters were targeted from afar. "This was not an encounter, but a fake encounter," Ugoke declared, his words resonating with a demand for accountability. He further alleged that after the men were hit, they were left without immediate medical attention, ultimately succumbing to their injuries due to neglect.

The MLA's claims are bolstered by local residents who have come forward with their own observations.

Many villagers reported hearing only a few gunshots during the incident, significantly fewer than what would be expected in an extensive crossfire scenario. This detail adds weight to Ugoke's assertion that the police narrative of a prolonged shootout might not align with the ground reality.

Ugoke is not merely questioning the sequence of events; he is demanding a comprehensive, high-level inquiry into the entire episode.

His call reflects a growing public demand for transparency and justice, particularly in cases involving alleged extrajudicial killings. The incident gains an additional layer of grim familiarity, occurring in the very same house where another infamous gangster, Jagroop Singh Rupa, was previously killed in an encounter.

As the controversy intensifies, the authorities are under increasing pressure to provide a transparent account and address the serious allegations raised by the elected representative.

The Pathanmajra encounter has become a flashpoint, highlighting the delicate balance between maintaining law and order and upholding due process, leaving the community and political observers awaiting the truth behind the bullets.