Dalit Man Gunned Down In Karnal; Himanshu Bhau Gang's Social Media Claim Under Police Scrutiny

A 28-year-old Dalit man was shot dead by two motorcycle-borne assailants in Haryana's Karnal district on Wednesday night, with the notorious Himanshu Bhau gang later claiming responsibility for the killing through a social media post.

Attack near liquor shop

The victim, identified as Veeru Valmiki, alias Vishu, was riding his scooter near a liquor shop on Hansi Road when the attackers allegedly opened fire at close range before fleeing the scene. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

According to the police, forensic experts recovered a spent cartridge casefrom the scene and seized footage from nearby CCTV cameras. Investigators said the murder appears to be linked to an old rivalry, although all possible angles are being examined.

Gang's claim under scrutiny

The Himanshu Bhau gang later claimed responsibility for the killing in a social media post, alleging that Veeru had made provocative remarks online. Authorities have not officially verified the authenticity of the post.

Himanshu Bhau is wanted by the Delhi Police, Haryana Police and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in several extortion cases. An Interpol Red Corner Notice has also been issued against him.

Veeru was reportedly active on social media and had described himself as a "history-sheeter" in his Instagram biography. He had also previously worked as a sanitation worker with the Karnal Municipal Corporation before leaving the job around four years ago.

Family seeks justice

Family members alleged that Veeru had been involved in an online dispute for the past three to four months and handed over the names of six people from Nilokheri and Kurukshetra to the police. According to officials, a case has now been registered against seven people based on a complaint filed by the victim's mother.

The victim, who had married only a few months ago, was the only son in his family. His wife was inconsolable following the incident, while relatives gathered outside the hospital demanding swift action against the accused.

Calls for action

Valmiki community leader Raju Butana criticised the administration over the deteriorating law and order situation and called for justice for the victim's family. Meanwhile, police teams have intensified efforts to identify and arrest those involved in the murder.