Haryanvi singer and YouTuber Ankit Balyan who was 32, was shot dead in Shamli district on Wednesday outside a gym. Preliminary information suggests that around 18 rounds were fired during the incident.
The shooting took place at around 7 pm near Aryapuri Nala Patri in the City Kotwali area. Police said the attackers arrived on two motorcycles when Balyan came out of the gym and walked towards his Scorpio SUV.
Attackers Allegedly Opened Fire at Close Range
According to police and eyewitness accounts, four alleged attackers were waiting outside the gym. As Balyan approached his vehicle, he reportedly moved towards the co-driver's side in an attempt to protect himself, as a wall was blocking access to the driver's side.
The attackers allegedly opened the vehicle door and fired several rounds at Balyan from close range. Reports indicate that five bullets hit him in the head and abdomen, while another three struck the front windshield of his SUV.
Ankit Balyan Declared Dead at Hospital
Following the shooting, Balyan was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. However, doctors declared him dead on arrival.
The attackers reportedly escaped from the area after the incident. Police teams soon arrived at the spot and began investigating the circumstances surrounding the killing.
Police Probe Underway
Authorities are examining CCTV footage from the gym and nearby locations to identify the suspects and piece together the sequence of events. Police are also investigating whether the incident has any connection and are working to determine the motive behind the attack.
Protests Erupt After Singer's Killing
The killing led to protests by Balyan's family members, supporters and villagers, who demanded swift action against those responsible. Protesters reportedly blocked the Delhi-Muzaffarnagar Road, around 50 metres from the location where the shooting took place. They demanded that the accused be arrested immediately and face strict action.
Who Was Ankit Balyan?
Balyan, a resident of Bantikheda village in Shamli, had built a following through his Haryanvi music and YouTube content. He had more than 3.66 lakh subscribers on YouTube and was known for his songs and performances.
His videos frequently featured SUVs and firearms, which became part of his online persona. Among the songs associated with him was "Bhari Court Mein Goli Marenge Meri Jaan."
[With TOI inputs]
