A Kabaddi tournament in Mohali’s Sohana area was thrown into chaos on Monday after unidentified attackers opened fire during a live match, leaving the event’s promoter seriously injured.
The incident occurred at a playground in Sector 82, where a large crowd had gathered to watch the tournament.
According to preliminary accounts, the assailants arrived in a Bolero vehicle and fired multiple rounds before fleeing the scene.
Witnesses said several shots rang out in quick succession, initially confusing as some spectators mistook the noise for firecrackers. Panic spread as people realized gunfire was involved, with bullets reportedly passing over the heads of onlookers.
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One person, identified as Rana Balachauria, sustained gunshot injuries to the head and face. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where his condition was described as critical. Balachauria was associated with promoting the kabaddi tournament, which was being organized by the local sports club, along with support from a gurdwara management committee.
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Police teams from Mohali reached the spot shortly after the incident and cordoned off the area. Investigators are examining CCTV footage from the venue and surrounding locations to identify the attackers and determine the motive behind the shooting. The match, which was being live-streamed, captured the sound of gunfire on camera.
Sources said Punjabi singer Mankirt Aulakh was also scheduled to attend the event later, but he was not present at the time of the firing.
Authorities have assured that a thorough investigation is underway and security arrangements for public sporting events will be reviewed in light of the incident.
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