Gangster Landa Harike Claims Responsibility for AAP Sarpanch’s Murder in Tarn Taran

February 19, 2026

Tarn Taran: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Sarpanch Harbhinder Singh (45) was shot dead during a wedding ceremony on Wednesday afternoon. The incident sent shockwaves through the area and heated up the political landscape regarding law and order in Punjab.

Incident at Wedding Ceremony

The incident occurred at Sidhu Farm Palace around 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday. The attackers entered the venue posing as guests. According to eyewitnesses, as the Sarpanch sat down on a sofa after dancing with friends, a young man from the crowd opened fire at close range.

He was shot multiple times in the stomach and head. He died on the way to the hospital. A man named Germanjit was also injured in the firing.

Cousin raises questions about security

The Sarpanch’s cousin, Gurjeet Singh, said they had been sitting together for barely two minutes when the shots were fired. They questioned how weapons entered the premises during a wedding ceremony.

According to sources, a semi-automatic AK-47-type rifle and a 9mm pistol were used in the attack.

Gangster Claims Responsibility

In a viral post on social media, gangster Lakhbir Landa Harike claimed responsibility for the murder. However, police are investigating the veracity of this post.

Police are investigating the case from all angles and currently believe it to be a case of personal enmity.

SSP Provides Investigation Details

SSP Surinder Lamba stated that two attackers carried out the attack. The sarpanch had not received any prior threats. Another person chased the attackers, leading to a crossfire, and one person was shot in the leg, who is undergoing treatment.

He stated that the case is being investigated scientifically and four police teams have been formed. CCTV footage is also being examined.

 DSP and SHO suspended

Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav has suspended Patti DSP Jagbir Singh and Sarhali police station SHO Gurvinder Singh on charges of negligence.

Police have detained seven suspects and begun questioning them.

Political rhetoric intensifies

Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia has demanded that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Acting DGP Gaurav Yadav take moral responsibility and immediately resign.

Meanwhile, Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar visited the hospital and met with the family and assured them that the accused would be arrested soon.

Harbhinder Singh was the Sarpanch of Thathian Mahanta village. He has two sons, aged 8 and 11.

Gangster Landa Harike Claims Responsibility for AAP Sarpanch’s Murder in Tarn Taran