Kabaddi player shot dead during tournament in Mohali, panic grips packed venue

A kabaddi tournament in Mohali witnessed a shocking shooting incident on Monday evening (December 15), after player and organiser Rana Balachauria was shot dead during a live match, triggering panic among players and spectators. The incident took place around 5.30 pm at a ground in Sector 82, where a kabaddi match was underway in front of a packed crowd. According to police officials and eyewitnesses, unidentified gunmen opened fire just as the teams were entering the field, catching everyone off guard.

The sudden gunshots caused chaos at the venue, with players and fans running for cover. Many initially mistook the loud sounds for firecrackers before realising that live bullets had been fired. Rana Balachauria, a well-known kabaddi player and one of the organisers of the tournament, suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the head and face.

He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite medical efforts, Balachauria later succumbed to his injuries, police confirmed. Visuals of the incident were reportedly captured during the live recording of the match, adding to the shock surrounding the attack.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers arrived at the venue in a Bolero vehicle, opened fire, and fled the scene within moments. Police teams reached the ground soon after the incident and launched a search operation to trace the assailants. A case has been registered, and investigations are ongoing to determine the motive behind the attack.

It was also reported that Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) HS Bal was present at the venue as the chief guest but had left shortly before the firing. Punjabi singer Mankirat Aulakh, who was scheduled to attend the event, reportedly turned back after being informed about the shooting. The alleged killing has raised serious concerns over player safety and security at local sporting events in Punjab.