Phagwara, November 27, 2025 – In a shocking incident early Thursday morning, two armed men on a motorcycle opened fire at the residence of Daljit Singh Raju, Phagwara coordinator of the ruling AAP’s ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ drive, a campaign against drugs in Punjab. Despite the intensity of the attack, no casualties were reported.

According to police and eyewitness accounts, the attack occurred at approximately 1:13 am near Darvesh Pind villageon the Phagwara-Jandiala road. Around 23 rounds were fired at the house, shattering window panes and doors, according to statements from Raju and local police authorities. Raju, who is considered a close associate of Hoshiarpur MP Raj Kumar Chabbewal, described the terrifying ordeal in detail to reporters, explaining that the gunmen initially appeared to be bursting firecrackers.

“They parked their motorcycle a short distance away and then walked up to the house before opening fire,” Raju said. “At first, I thought some firecrackers were being set off, but my wife quickly realized that two men were shooting at the house. I immediately contacted the police.”

Responding to the incident, Phagwara Sub-Divisional Superintendent of Police Madhvi Sharma confirmed that CCTV footage was being reviewed and additional police forces had been deployed at the site. She added that raids are being conducted in the surrounding areas as part of a thorough investigation into all angles of the incident. “We are taking full stock of the situation and will soon nab the miscreants,” she said.

Interestingly, a handwritten slip was found at the scene. Written in English, the note reportedly mentioned the name of a certain group and an amount of ₹5 crore, raising speculation about a potential motive. However, when questioned about any prior threats or ransom demands, Raju stated that he had no known enmity with anyone and had not received any calls or threats related to ransom. The police have described the note as part of the ongoing investigation, and its contents are being closely examined.

The attack has triggered concerns about the security of political leaders and activists in Punjab, particularly those involved in campaigns against drugs and organized crime. Daljit Singh Raju’s work as part of the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ initiative has been recognized for targeting the drug trade, which remains a persistent social issue in the region. Authorities are yet to ascertain whether the attack was linked to his anti-drug activism or another motive.

Local residents expressed shock at the incident, highlighting the increasing audacity of armed attacks in the area. Police officials emphasized that public safety remains a top priority, and preventive measures, including enhanced surveillance and patrolling, are being intensified.

The investigation is ongoing, with officers combing through CCTV footage, collecting forensic evidence, and tracing the movements of the suspects. The police have also appealed to local residents to share any information that could help in identifying the perpetrators.

This incident comes at a time when law enforcement agencies in Punjab are under increased pressure to curb organized crime and drug-related violence, particularly against individuals working actively in anti-drug campaigns. Authorities have assured the public and the political community that those responsible for this brazen attack will be apprehended and prosecuted under the full extent of the law.

As the investigation progresses, the police are evaluating whether the ₹5 crore demand mentioned in the slip is a genuine ransom attempt or a diversionary tactic. They are also examining whether the attack could be linked to any larger criminal network operating in the region. Meanwhile, Daljit Singh Raju has urged calm and reiterated his commitment to the anti-drug movement, stating that such threats will not deter the ongoing efforts to tackle narcotics in Punjab.

The case underscores the risks faced by political leaders and activists in volatile regions, particularly when their work challenges entrenched criminal or illicit interests. With the attack occurring in the dead of night and no casualties, authorities consider themselves fortunate that the incident did not escalate further.

Police continue to appeal to citizens for vigilance and cooperation in providing information that could lead to a breakthrough in the investigation. Raju and his family are reportedly being provided temporary security arrangementswhile the inquiry unfolds.

The incident has sparked political and social reactions, with various leaders condemning the attack and emphasizing the need for stronger protective measures for activists involved in social and political causes. The investigation into this audacious attack is likely to remain a focus for law enforcement agencies in the region over the coming weeks.

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