A 28-year-old soldier serving in the President’s Bodyguard (PBG) was shot in the head during an altercation with neighbors in Baghpat district, Uttar Pradesh, on Diwali night. The soldier, identified as Saurabh Tomar, was visiting his native village, Gopalpur Khadana, while on leave.
According to police reports, the confrontation occurred when Saurabh and his brother, Vineet, were standing outside their home. Two neighbors, identified as Dheeraj and Monu—also known as Praveen—confronted the brothers. While The Times of India reported the motive as an old rivalry, News18 noted that the argument began over the location and timing of bursting firecrackers near their residences.
Saurabh’s father, Janakraj Singh Tomar, alleged that the suspects arrived armed with a country-made pistol and a lathi. During the ensuing argument, one of the suspects allegedly fired a shot. According to The Times of India, the bullet ricocheted off a nearby wall before hitting Saurabh in the head. The attackers also allegedly struck Vineet on the head with a stick before fleeing the scene.
The injured brothers were initially taken to a hospital in Baraut, but doctors referred Saurabh to a medical facility in Meerut due to the severity of his condition. Saurabh underwent surgery on Monday and is currently stable and out of danger. The Ramala police have registered an FIR against the two suspects under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for attempt to murder, causing hurt, and criminal intimidation. Local authorities have launched a search to apprehend the absconding individuals.
Key facts
- Saurabh Tomar, 28, is a member of the mounted unit of the President’s Bodyguard stationed at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
- The incident took place on Diwali night in Gopalpur Khadana village, Baghpat district.
- Police registered a case under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including 109(1) for attempt to murder.
- Saurabh underwent surgery in Meerut on Monday and is currently reported to be out of danger.
- The suspects, Dheeraj and Monu, remain at large, and police are currently conducting raids at potential hideouts.
Why it matters
The assault on a member of the elite military regiment, which provides ceremonial escort and security for the President of India, has prompted a significant police response in the region. Authorities have deployed forces to the village to maintain order and prevent further escalation between the families involved.
Background
The President’s Bodyguard is the senior-most regiment of the Indian Army in the order of precedence. Based at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the unit performs ceremonial and security duties and is also trained for operational deployment with armoured vehicles.
Source: Times of India, News18
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