In a horrifying incident at a law college in Usma village, Tarn Taran district, Punjab, first-year student Prince Raj, from Mallian village in Jalandhar, fatally shot his classmate Sandeep Kaur before turning the gun on himself. The event unfolded around 9:15 am on Monday in a classroom filled with students. Kaur, a resident of Naushehra Pannuan, died instantly from a headshot, while Raj was rushed to a hospital in critical condition. The entire sequence was recorded on CCTV, providing crucial evidence for investigators.
CCTV footage reveals the chilling buildup: Raj entered the classroom and walked past Kaur, who appeared to make remarks that he ignored. She then exited, followed by Raj, as an unidentified female classmate attempted to intervene. Moments later, the third student is seen laughing while escorting both back to the rear of the classroom. Kaur and the intervener took the last bench, with Raj sitting in front, setting the stage for the sudden violence.
The footage escalates dramatically when Kaur stands up; Raj rises, retrieves a pistol from his bag, turns, and fires a single shot into her head at point-blank range. He then takes three deliberate steps forward and shoots himself in the head, collapsing immediately. The third classmate freezes in shock before checking on Kaur, then flees the room, alerting other batchmates who evacuate in panic. No other injuries were reported among witnesses.
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Police have confirmed both victims were first-year law students at the college and have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including murder and suicide abetment provisions. The motive remains unclear, with preliminary inquiries suggesting a possible personal dispute, though no prior complaints were filed. Forensic teams are analyzing the pistol—a licensed or illegal firearm, details pending—and the CCTV for further clues. Raj's family has been questioned, revealing no known history of violence.
College authorities locked down the campus post-incident, canceling classes and providing counseling for traumatized students. Local officials, including Tarn Taran SSP Amarpreet Singh, described the event as a "preventable tragedy" amid rising concerns over campus safety and illegal weapons. Student unions have demanded stricter bag checks and mental health support, highlighting vulnerabilities in rural educational institutions.
The investigation continues with Raj's medical status under watch; if he survives, he faces murder charges. This incident underscores urgent needs for firearm regulations and conflict resolution in schools. Authorities urge witnesses to come forward, promising anonymity, as more details emerge.
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