Punjab Military Base Attack Results in Four Indian Soldiers Killed

Sources said that at least four soldiers were killed in a shooting at a military base in the border state of Punjab in India early this morning, Wednesday, while the army began searching for the perpetrators of the shooting.

A defense source told Reuters that an unknown number of shooters opened fire at the base in the city of Bathinda, refusing to be named, pointing to the sensitivity of the matter.

A statement by the army said that four soldiers died of gunshot wounds they sustained during the accident, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

The statement did not give the circumstances or other details about who was responsible for the accident.

A senior police official in Punjab told Reuters the incident was “not a terrorist attack” and took place in a canteen.

The army statement stated that the base has been closed and a joint investigation is underway with the local police, adding that there were no reports of injuries or property damage.

“All aspects are being verified including the case of an (assault) rifle being involved with 28 rounds reported missing two days ago,” the military said.

Images from Reuters partner ANI showed roadblocks outside the gates of the military station and security personnel deployed outside the border wall.

An army statement said earlier that the incident occurred at 4:35 am (11:05 GMT Tuesday).

The military base is located about 280 kilometers (175 miles) northwest of New Delhi and houses mostly families of soldiers. The border with Pakistan lies about 100 kilometers west of Bathinda.