RTI activist and lawyer Simranjit Singh was fatally shot by two motorcycle-borne assailants in a second attempt on his life in Phagwara city, Punjab. The incident occurred near the Jalandhar-Ludhiana highway, where Singh was hit by multiple bullets. Singh, known for filing complaints against high-profile individuals, had previously survived an attempt on his life in Jalandhar city.
The victim, Simranjit Singh, had been actively filing petitions and complaints on contentious matters in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, state police, and the Enforcement Directorate (ED). He had provided documents to the ED implicating state Cabinet minister Sanjeev Arora, who is currently in jail. Additionally, Singh had challenged the constitutionality of the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib (Amendment) Act, 2026.
Authorities reported that two bullets had penetrated Singh’s head during the attack. A .32 bore pistol was found near him, along with a 12 bore rifle in his vehicle. Singh’s two mobile phones were also discovered at the scene. Police stated that there were no indications of Singh being ambushed, as his vehicle was parked correctly.
In response to the tragic incident, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal condemned the murder, labeling it as an assault on democracy and transparency. Badal highlighted that Singh had filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026. He urged for an independent agency to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
State Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring expressed concerns over the deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab following the incident. Warring emphasized the need for accountability and justice, stating that citizens, activists, and lawyers should not fear for their safety when raising their voices. He called for a government that could ensure the safety of all citizens in Punjab.
