2 ‘prime shooters’ in Haryanavi singer Ankit Baliyan murder killed in encounter in UP's Shamli | India News - Hindustan Times

**Haryana Singer Ankit Baliyan’s Murder Leads to Fatal Police Encounter in Shamli**

Two men identified by Uttar Pradesh police as the “prime shooters” in the killing of popular Haryanvi singer‑YouTuber Ankit Baliyan were shot dead during an alleged encounter on the outskirts of Shamli district on Saturday. According to the Uttar Pradesh Police, the suspects—identified as 28‑year‑old Rahul Kumar and 31‑year‑old Pawan Singh—were cornered while attempting to flee after a tip‑off about their location. The police statement said the officers opened fire after the suspects allegedly resisted arrest, resulting in both men sustaining fatal injuries. The encounter was confirmed by the district superintendent of police, who added that forensic teams have been dispatched to the site to collect evidence and verify the circumstances.

Ankit Baliyan, known for his chart‑topping Haryanvi tracks and a sizable YouTube following, was shot dead outside a gym in his native village of Gharoli on 23 May, sparking outrage across the northern states. Initial investigations by the Shamli police, supported by the Crime Branch, pointed to a pre‑planned attack, and surveillance footage later released showed the two gunmen approaching the singer moments before the fatal shot. The motive behind the murder remains under investigation, though authorities have hinted at a possible personal vendetta linked to a property dispute. The swift police action in Shamli follows intense public pressure and a series of protests demanding justice for the beloved artist.

The incident quickly became a flashpoint in state politics. Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav seized the opportunity to lambaste the ruling NDA coalition, accusing it of failing to provide security to cultural icons and demanding a transparent probe. In response, RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary defended the Uttar Pradesh government, arguing that the police encounter demonstrated decisive action against law‑breakers. Both sides called for an independent inquiry, while the entertainment community mourned Baliyan’s untimely death and paid tribute to his contributions to Haryanvi music.