20-year-old shot at in UP: Weapon used linked to BJP youth wing district head, finds probe

Tiwari has yet to respond to the case.

According to the police, the incident took place on the afternoon of Diwali (October 20) when the victim, Manvendra alias Monu, went to a nursing college where his father works as a chowkidar. While he was there, two men on a motorcycle allegedly opened fire at him before fleeing the spot. Manvendra sustained a bullet injury on his back and was immediately taken to a hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment.

Police later arrested the accused, local residents Sumit Kumar and Sanjay, who are in their 20s. An FIR was registered against them under charges of attempt to murder at the Matsena police station.

Police claimed that during questioning, the duo admitted to using the licensed weapon belonging to Tiwari in the attack. Police also found that the victim and Sumit had a dispute over the former’s love affair, so they decided to shoot him.

During the investigation, police claimed it emerged that Tiwari had allegedly handed over his licenced revolver to Bijendra Yadav, father of accused Sumit. Along with Tiwari, Bijendra, described as his close associate, has also been booked in the case.

Firozabad Superintendent of Police, Saurabh Dixit, said that Tiwari’s direct involvement in the firing has not been established so far. However, since his licenced weapon was used in the crime, he has been held accountable for negligence in its safekeeping. “Tiwari’s role in the firing has not been found, but a case of negligence has been registered for failing to keep his weapon securely. We are further examining the matter and will consider recommending cancellation of his firearm licence,” Dixit said.

When contacted, BJP’s Firozabad district president Divakar said Bijendra was employed in Tiwari’s private security agency. “It was Diwali day, and the weapon was kept in a drawer at Tiwari’s house. The security guard took it without his knowledge; later, his son used it to settle a personal dispute,” he said.

Divakar further maintained that Tiwari had no connection with the crime, as he had neither any enmity nor any dispute with the victim. “Tiwari has been dragged into this case unfairly. He made the mistake of trusting people who misused his faith and property,” Divakar added.

Police said Sumit and Sanjay have been sent to jail and further investigation into the case is underway.

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