BJP Leader Survives Assassination Attempt in Punjab

In a shocking incident in Gurdaspur, a senior BJP leader narrowly escaped an assassination attempt when masked gunmen opened fire at his petrol station. This attack follows a troubling trend of violence against BJP officials in Punjab, raising serious concerns about political safety in the region. The incident, reportedly linked to an extortion demand, has prompted investigations by law enforcement. As the BJP continues to criticize the ruling government for failing to ensure security, this event underscores the escalating tensions and threats faced by political figures in the state. Read on for more details about this alarming situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 4, 2026, 12:31 IST

Attack on BJP Leader in Gurdaspur

Photo: IANS

Gurdaspur, June 4: A senior leader from the BJP narrowly avoided a fatal attack when two masked gunmen on a motorcycle opened fire at his petrol station in Gurdaspur district, according to officials on Thursday.

The shooting incident occurred late Wednesday night, raising alarms due to a recent spate of attacks on BJP officials and their establishments in the region. Reports indicate that this attack followed an extortion demand of ₹2 crore.

Vijay Kumar Soni, who heads the BJP's trade cell, was at his petrol pump in Bhagwanpur when the assailants struck. The attackers, with their faces concealed, seemed to have planned the assault in advance.

CCTV footage from the petrol station has emerged, showing the two assailants arriving on a motorcycle and subsequently firing at the location.

In a quick response, Soni utilized his licensed revolver to return fire, prompting the attackers to flee the scene.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and Soni escaped unharmed due to his swift actions, as confirmed by officials.

Law enforcement arrived promptly after being alerted about the shooting and commenced an investigation. They examined the crime scene, gathered evidence, and began reviewing the CCTV footage to identify the perpetrators.

Authorities are also looking into the motives behind the attack, particularly the alleged extortion threat that preceded it. Officials are exploring all possible angles and are actively working to track down those responsible.

This incident has once again highlighted the ongoing violence against BJP leaders and offices in Punjab.

In recent months, there have been numerous reports of shootings, vandalism, and intimidation targeting BJP representatives, raising serious concerns about security in the state.

The BJP has consistently criticized the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for its inability to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of political figures.

On May 11, a group of around 20 masked individuals reportedly attacked a BJP district office, vandalizing the property, throwing ink at local leaders, and pelting stones. The assailants also fired shots into the air while escaping, chanting slogans against the party.

Similar acts of vandalism against BJP offices have been reported in Zirakpur, Ludhiana, and Balachaur during this timeframe.

In another alarming incident in April, unidentified individuals allegedly threw a crude bomb or grenade-like device outside the Punjab BJP office in Chandigarh.