Retired Army Havildar Shoots Son Dead, Dies by Suicide After Family Dispute in Punjab

A 66-year-old retired Army havildar allegedly shot dead his son following a heated argument over his relationship with a woman before dying by suicide in Punjab’s Ludhiana district, police said on Monday.

The incident took place in the New Agar Nagar area , sending shockwaves through the locality and once again highlighting how unresolved emotional stress, family conflicts, and the lack of peace of mind can lead to tragic consequences.

According to police, the accused, identified as Surinder Singh , had been in a relationship with a woman after the death of his wife and reportedly wanted to marry her. However, his son Gursharan Singh (38) strongly opposed the relationship, leading to frequent arguments between the two. Neighbours said tensions in the family had been escalating for some time.

On Sunday night, another argument reportedly broke out over the same issue. During the confrontation, Surinder Singh allegedly took out his licensed 12-bore double-barrel gun . Fearing for his life, Gursharan ran out of the house, but his father allegedly chased him onto the street and opened fire. Gursharan died on the spot.

Police said Surinder Singh later returned home and consumed a poisonous substance . He was rushed to the Civil Hospital, where he died during treatment.

The bodies have been sent for post-mortem examination , and the weapon used in the crime has been seized. Police said further investigation is underway.

Officials added that Gursharan was unmarried, while his two sisters, who live in England and Canada, have been informed about the tragedy. Surinder Singh had reportedly been working as a security guard at a bank after retiring from the Army.

The incident has sparked discussions among residents about the growing emotional strain and mental stress affecting families, with many stressing the importance of dialogue, counselling, and mental well-being in preventing such tragedies.