A Diwali celebration turned into a horrifying incident in Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat when a 26-year-old jawan serving in the President’s Bodyguard was shot in the head following an altercation with his neighbours. The shocking incident took place when Saurabh Tomar had returned to his native village to celebrate Diwali with his family.
Argument Over Firecrackers Escalates
The incident occurred on November 8 in Gopalpur Khadana village under the Ramala police station area. Saurabh was reportedly bursting firecrackers outside his house alongside his brothers, Vineet and Mintu, when two neighbours, Dheeraj and his brother Monu alias Praveen, objected to the activity.
According to the complaint filed by Saurabh’s family, an argument broke out between the two sides and quickly escalated into violence. During the confrontation, Dheeraj allegedly pulled out a country-made pistol and opened fire.
In a shocking turn of events, the bullet first struck a nearby wall before ricocheting and hitting Saurabh in the head, just behind his ear. His brother Vineet was also allegedly assaulted during the confrontation.
Underwent Surgery in Meerut
Following the shooting, family members rushed Saurabh to a nearby community health centre in Baraut. He was subsequently referred for advanced treatment in Meerut.
Doctors performed surgery and successfully removed the bullet lodged in his head. He was admitted to the intensive care unit. While initial reports described his condition as critical, the latest update on November 11 stated that he was stable.
Police Launch Search for Accused
Saurabh joined the Army in 2021 and is currently posted with the President’s Bodyguard at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi. He had returned to his village on leave for the Diwali celebrations.
Following a complaint by his father, Janak Raj, police registered an FIR against Dheeraj and Monu. Multiple police teams have been formed to trace and arrest the accused.