Greater Noida. A minor dispute turned violent on Tuesday in Khedi Bhanauta village, located within the Surajpur police station area of Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. An Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Havildar, who was home on leave, shot a shopkeeper after becoming enraged over an alleged delay in being handed a packet of gutkha (chewing tobacco). The shopkeeper sustained serious injuries and was immediately rushed to the hospital with the help of locals; he is currently undergoing treatment. The incident caused a stir in the area. Upon receiving the information, the police arrived at the scene, arrested the accused Havildar, and recovered his licensed pistol.
According to the police, the incident took place in Khedi Bhanauta village under the Surajpur police station limits. Preliminary investigations revealed that the accused ITBP Havildar had come to his village on leave. He visited a local shop to buy gutkha. A verbal altercation ensued with the shopkeeper due to a delay in receiving the product. Eyewitnesses stated that a heated argument broke out between the two, which quickly escalated into a confrontation.
It is alleged that during the argument, the Havildar lost his temper, drew his licensed pistol, and fired at the shopkeeper. Struck by the bullet, the shopkeeper collapsed on the spot, bleeding profusely. Hearing the gunshot, locals rushed to the scene and immediately took the injured man to the hospital. Doctors described his condition as critical and initiated treatment.
This broad-daylight shooting incident caused panic throughout the village. Locals immediately informed the police. Upon receiving the report, the Surajpur police arrived at the scene and gathered information from bystanders. The police inspected the site, collected evidence, and launched a search for the accused. Shortly thereafter, the police took the accused Havildar into custody.
The police have also recovered the licensed pistol used in the crime from the accused’s possession. The weapon has been seized and is being sent for forensic examination. Police officials state that all aspects of the incident are being investigated, and statements from eyewitnesses are being recorded. Additionally, footage from CCTV cameras in the vicinity is being examined to verify the sequence of events.
The injured shopkeeper is undergoing treatment at the hospital, and doctors are closely monitoring his condition. The police intend to record the victim’s statement; however, if his condition does not permit him to speak, further legal proceedings will be carried out once medical clearance is obtained.
Preliminary investigations suggest the incident stemmed from a dispute over an alleged delay in providing gutkha (chewing tobacco). However, the police are also investigating whether there was any prior conflict or personal enmity between the parties involved. The investigation is proceeding with all possible angles being considered.
A tense atmosphere prevails in the village following the incident. Locals have expressed deep concern over the use of a firearm—an extreme reaction—triggered by a trivial matter. Villagers have demanded strict action against the accused. As a precautionary measure, the police have stepped up surveillance in the area to prevent any untoward incidents.
Police officials stated that a case is being registered against the accused under relevant sections of the law. He is being interrogated to determine his mental state at the time of the incident and the circumstances under which he used the weapon. Further legal action will be taken based on any additional facts that emerge during the investigation.
This incident has once again raised questions regarding the responsible use of licensed personal firearms. The escalation of a minor dispute into violence is a matter of serious concern for society. The police emphasize that no one is permitted to take the law into their own hands, and if found guilty, the accused will face strict action in accordance with the law.
The police are currently investigating every aspect of the case. Further action will be determined based on eyewitness statements, forensic reports, medical reports, and other technical evidence. The picture regarding the case is expected to become clearer following the injured shopkeeper’s recovery and progress in the investigation.
