Ludhiana: A Congress block president was allegedly hacked to death with an axe by unidentified assailants in Punjab’s Ludhiana district, prompting a major police investigation and strong reactions from political leaders.

According to police officials, the local leader of the Indian National Congress was attacked by a group of men who assaulted him with an axe in broad daylight. The brutal attack left him critically injured before the assailants fled the scene.

Residents in the area rushed the injured leader to a nearby hospital for treatment. However, doctors declared him dead on arrival due to the severity of his injuries. Police officials said the body has been sent for post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death.

Senior officers from the Punjab Police reached the spot soon after the incident and began a detailed investigation. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the law and multiple teams have been formed to identify and track down the attackers.

Investigators are also examining CCTV footage from nearby areas and questioning witnesses to gather clues about the suspects. Police sources said the motive behind the killing is yet to be confirmed, but all angles — including personal rivalry and political enmity — are being looked into.

The murder created tension in the locality as news of the incident spread, with supporters and residents gathering near the victim’s residence. Party leaders and workers expressed shock and grief over the killing and demanded strict action against those responsible.

Leaders from the Congress condemned the incident and urged authorities to ensure the immediate arrest of the accused. Police officials said efforts are underway to trace the suspects and assured that those involved in the crime will be brought to justice.