Punjab’s law and order situation has once again come under sharp scrutiny after a kabaddi promoter and coach was shot dead during a live match in Mohali’s Sohana area on Monday evening. The shocking incident unfolded in full public view, triggering panic among players and spectators present at the venue.
The victim, Rana Balachauria, was actively involved as a promoter and coach in the ongoing Kabaddi Cup tournament. According to preliminary information, unidentified assailants entered the ground posing as fans and asked players for selfies. Moments later, they opened indiscriminate fire, with Balachauria sustaining a fatal gunshot wound to the head. He was rushed to Fortis Hospital in critical condition but later succumbed to his injuries.
Eyewitnesses reported that several rounds were fired, initially mistaken for firecrackers, before chaos erupted at the packed venue in Sector 82. The match was being live-streamed, and the gunshots were captured on camera. The incident occurred shortly before Punjabi singer Mankirt Aulakh was scheduled to attend the event.
Mohali SSP Harmandeep Singh Hans confirmed that three to four attackers were involved and that multiple escape routes, including vehicles and motorcycles, are being investigated. Police are examining CCTV footage and probing all angles, including possible gang rivalry.
The brazen attack at a public sporting event has reignited concerns over security lapses and the ability of law enforcement to protect public spaces in Punjab.
