Uttar Pradesh : A Diwali celebration in Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat district turned violent after a 26-year-old Indian Army soldier, serving with the elite President’s Bodyguard (PBG), was allegedly shot in the head following a dispute over bursting firecrackers. The soldier is currently battling for his life in critical condition.

The injured jawan has been identified as Saurabh Tomar, who had returned to his native village on leave to celebrate Diwali with his family.

Neighbourhood Dispute Escalates into Shooting

According to reports, the incident took place outside Tomar’s residence while he was bursting firecrackers with his brothers, Vineet and Mintu.

A heated argument reportedly broke out between Tomar’s family and two neighbours, identified as Dheeraj and his brother Monu, also known as Praveen.

The confrontation allegedly turned violent when Dheeraj pulled out an unlicensed country-made pistol and fired. The bullet reportedly struck a nearby wall before hitting Tomar in the head, behind his ear.

Tomar collapsed at the spot. Meanwhile, Monu allegedly attacked his brother Vineet with wooden sticks before both accused fled as locals gathered.

Bullet Removed, Soldier Remains Critical

Tomar was initially rushed to a medical facility and later shifted to a private hospital in Meerut for specialised treatment.

Doctors reportedly performed emergency neurosurgery and successfully removed the bullet lodged in his skull. However, the soldier continues to remain in critical condition under close observation in the ICU.

Tomar joined the Indian Army in 2021 and is posted at Rashtrapati Bhavan as a member of the prestigious President’s Bodyguard cavalry unit.

Police Launch Search for Accused

Following a complaint by the soldier’s father, Janak Raj, Baghpat Police registered an FIR against Dheeraj and Monu.

Multiple police teams, operating under the supervision of senior officers, including the Circle Officer of Baraut and the Additional Superintendent of Police, have launched raids at several locations to track down the absconding accused.

Further investigation is underway to establish the sequence of events and take action against those responsible.