In a dramatic twist following the high-profile Punjab Kurta-Pajama King murder, two accused were killed in a police crossfire in Abohar, just days after the brutal killing of Sanjay Verma, a popular businessman and tailor to Punjab’s elite, reported Hindustan Times. Known across the state for designing kurta-pajamas for top political and business personalities, Verma was shot dead in broad daylight outside his showroom, triggering shock and anger throughout the region.
The Daylight Assassination That Shook Abohar
The incident occurred on July 7, when Sanjay Verma was exiting his New Wear Well showroom at Bhagat Singh Chowk in Abohar, located in Fazilka district. Eyewitnesses report that three men on a motorcycle opened fire at close range, hitting Verma multiple times. He died on the spot, and the assailants fled using a getaway car parked nearby. The audacity of the attack—carried out in a busy commercial zone during the day—sent shockwaves across Punjab’s business community.
Police Encounter and Crossfire
Soon after the murder, Punjab Police arrested two men identified as Jaspreet Singh and Ram Rattan. They were allegedly involved in helping the shooters escape after the crime. According to official statements, both were taken by police to a location on the outskirts of Abohar to recover discarded weapons. However, the operation reportedly turned into a shootout after the suspects allegedly tried to flee and fired at the police. In retaliation, both were killed in the exchange of fire. One police constable was reportedly injured during the encounter, and weapons were recovered from the site.
Sanjay Verma: The ‘Kurta-Pajama King’
Sanjay Verma, 54, was known for his impeccable tailoring skills and clientele that included ministers, bureaucrats, and local influencers. His fashion label, New Wear Well, became a household name in north India’s traditional menswear segment. Verma’s sudden death has left a void not just in the business community but also among his loyal customer base, many of whom viewed him as a cultural icon in the region.
Political Firestorm and Public Outrage
Verma’s murder triggered strong political reactions across party lines. BJP’s Punjab president Sunil Jakhar and Congress leader Amrinder Singh Raja Warring condemned the deteriorating law and order situation in the state. Accusing the AAP-led Punjab government of failing to curb rising gangster activities, leaders called for immediate action and accountability. Family members of the deceased expressed deep frustration, stating that businessmen who pay taxes and create employment deserve better protection from the state.
Ongoing Investigation and Leads
Police officials stated that an extortion threat was received by Verma days before the attack, hinting at a possible motive. Investigators have identified one of the shooters as Shakti, a helper to a local commission agent from a nearby village. CCTV footage and technical inputs are helping authorities piece together the sequence of events. Two other suspects remain at large, and a manhunt is underway.
Public Questions and Legal Scrutiny
While the police maintain that the crossfire was a necessary response, civil rights groups and opposition parties have demanded an independent probe into the encounter. Questions have been raised about the timing, location, and conduct of the operation, especially considering both suspects were key to uncovering the larger conspiracy. Human rights activists have called for transparency and accountability, warning against extra-judicial actions becoming normalized in high-profile cases.
Photo Credit: Hindustan Times
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