Ankit Balyan murder: Two shooters killed in Shamli encounter, family demands full justice
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Two accused shooters allegedly involved in the killing of Haryanvi singer and YouTuber Ankit Balyan were shot dead in a police encounter in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, on 31 August, as the slain artist's family welcomed the development but insisted that justice would only be complete when all remaining suspects are brought to account.
Family Reacts: 'Half Justice Served'
Balyan's father, Satbir Singh, described the encounter killings as partial justice. 'We got the news that two criminals were killed. Half justice has been served. Whether there are two or four, all of them should be killed. Only then will full justice be served,' he said.
Balyan's wife, Seema, echoed the sentiment, calling for the remaining absconding accused to be apprehended without delay. 'I just came to know, so it's fine that two are gone, but some accused are still absconding. So, I would like to say that they should also be caught as soon as possible,' she said. Seema added that while complete satisfaction may remain elusive, ensuring all accused face justice was paramount.
Who Were the Two Accused Killed
The two individuals killed in the encounter were identified as Sumit, 24, and Mohit, 22, both residents of Sonipat, Haryana, and allegedly associated with the Gogi gang. Police had announced a reward of ₹50,000 each for information leading to their arrest. According to police, approximately 14 cases had been registered against Mohit in Haryana, while Sumit had one case against him.
How the Encounter Unfolded
Shamli Superintendent of Police Narendra Pratap Singh said police teams had been conducting an extensive checking operation across the district from midnight. The two accused were spotted riding a motorcycle bearing a Baghpat registration number. When personnel signalled them to stop, they allegedly opened fire at the police vehicle and fled towards the Kotwali area.
A second interception attempt in the Kotwali area also drew fire from the accused, according to the SP, leading to the encounter in which both men were killed. Two other accused linked to the murder remain absconding, and police said efforts to trace them are ongoing.
Background: Ankit Balyan's Killing
Balyan was shot dead outside his gym in Shamli on 26 August when four assailants, reportedly arriving on two motorcycles, opened fire at him. A day after the attack, a person claiming affiliation with the Gogi gang took responsibility for the killing in a social media post. The murder drew widespread attention given Balyan's profile as a popular Haryanvi music artist and content creator.
What Happens Next
With two of the four accused now dead, investigators are focused on tracing the remaining suspects. The Gogi gang connection adds a layer of organised crime context to the case, and pressure from the victim's family is likely to keep the investigation in public focus. A full accounting of all those responsible, including any masterminds, remains the family's stated demand.