Amritsar: Unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants fatally shot Punjabi social media influencer and makeup artist Mad Sandhu on Loharka Road here on Saturday evening, police said.
The shooting occurred at approximately 6 pm, police said.
“Two unidentified persons, who were on a motorbike, opened fire at Mad Sandhu and fled the spot,” Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Sirivennela said.
Sandhu, whose real name is Madhusudan, was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries, police said. He was attacked when he came to a shop to get his car, which he had given for washing.
Around two to three rounds were fired, with an eyewitness saying the social media influencer was shot at close range, as reported by The New Indian Express.
A purported video which went viral on social media showed Sandhu lying on the road blood-soaked and some individuals were trying to pick him up.
Upon receiving information, a police team reached the spot, with the ADCP saying they have some leads and will apprehend the accused soon.
However, the motive of the attack was yet to be ascertained. Police said they were working on multiple angles.
Content, Controversy And Following
Sandhu frequently addressed topics related to makeup artistry and gender issues on podcasts and digital platforms.
He had even faced criticism and backlash on social media over his content style and fashion choices.
A few months ago, a Nihang Sikh had objected to his social media content and his clothing and told him that his videos would have a negative impact on youth.
His Instagram account had 2.26 lakh followers and had even acted in the Punjabi movie Oye Bhole Oye.
Political Reaction
Congress leader Raj Kumar Verka criticised the AAP government over the law and order issue by citing the latest murder incident in Amritsar.
“The AAP government has failed to protect the life of the common man in Punjab,” he said while demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.
