SIT formed to probe Bilaspur firing incident as investigation intensifies

Shimla, March 15,

The Himachal Pradesh government has constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the Bilaspur firing incident in which former Congress MLA Bamber Thakur, his personal security officer (PSO) Sanjeev Kumar, and two others sustained injuries. The SIT will be led by DIG Central Range, under the supervision of ADG Gyaneshwar Singh, as per a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office.

The SIT Team includes, Somya Sambshivan – DIG, Sandeep Dhawal – SP, Chander Paul – Dy SP and Harman Singh – Inspector

On March 14, unidentified assailants opened fire at Bamber Thakur’s residence while he was celebrating Holi with his supporters. Around 12 rounds were fired, injuring Thakur, his PSO Sanjeev Kumar, and supporter Vishal Sharma.

Thakur sustained a bullet wound to the thigh. Sanjeev Kumar suffered multiple gunshot wounds in the leg, back, and thigh. Vishal Sharma received pellet injuries while trying to protect Thakur.

Following initial treatment at Bilaspur, Thakur was shifted to IGMC Shimla, while his PSO was admitted to AIIMS Bilaspur in critical condition. However, police sources have now confirmed that all three injured individuals are stable.

Political accusations and reactions

Reportedly, in a video message from his hospital bed, Bamber Thakur accused Bilaspur MLA Trilok Jamwal of allegedly sheltering the assailants.

“I have been attacked by people involved in ‘Chitta’ (heroin) smuggling, as I had been fighting against them,” he alleged.
https://youtu.be/GFvmmM5WJrI?si=LMttT5-QObMLKiAc

However, MLA Trilok Jamwal refuted the accusations, calling the incident a gang war between rival groups.

“The firing on Thakur is a result of a gang rivalry. His own son was involved in a firing incident in the Bilaspur court complex a few months ago and was in jail for quite some time,” Jamwal countered.

Meanwhile, former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur condemned the incident, criticizing the state government for the deteriorating law and order situation.

Government Response

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, after visiting Bamber Thakur at IGMC Shimla, assured immediate action.

“I have directed the Bilaspur police to swiftly arrest the culprits and maintain law and order,” Sukhu stated.

Bilaspur SP Sandeep Dhaval confirmed that suspects are being interrogated, and vehicles linked to the attack are under scrutiny.

The SIT is expected to expedite the investigation into the shootout, uncover the motive behind the attack, and ensure swift arrests of those involved.

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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

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Himachalscape bureau

The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.