Just wanted to threaten Salman, says accused who fired at actor’s Bandra home

Introduction
In a shocking turn of events, a shooting incident occurred at Bollywood superstar Salman Khan’s Bandra residence on April 14, allegedly orchestrated by the infamous Lawrence Bishnoi gang. This incident sent shockwaves across India, sparking debates and discussions about safety, organized crime, and the ongoing animosity between Salman Khan and certain factions. While the shooting was reportedly intended as a threat rather than an attempt to cause physical harm, it highlights the escalating tensions and the influence of organized crime syndicates.

Salman Khan and the Bishnoi Community
Salman Khan, one of Bollywood’s most prominent actors, has been embroiled in legal battles and controversies over the years. One of the most significant legal issues he faced was the blackbuck poaching case. In 1998, Khan was accused of hunting blackbucks, an endangered species revered by the Bishnoi community in Rajasthan, during the filming of the movie “Hum Saath Saath Hain.” This case garnered substantial media attention and led to a strained relationship between Khan and the Bishnoi community, known for their deep-rooted respect for wildlife and nature.

The Bishnoi community, named after Guru Jambheshwar Ji, who laid down 29 tenets for its followers, is committed to environmental conservation and protection of all living beings. The blackbuck holds a sacred place in their culture, and any harm to it is seen as a grave offense. The poaching incident involving Khan left the community outraged, and despite legal proceedings, some members have continued to seek justice, harboring resentment towards the actor.

The Incident
Details of the Shooting
On April 14, 2024, gunshots were fired at Salman Khan’s apartment in Bandra, Mumbai. The incident occurred early in the morning, causing panic among residents and drawing immediate police attention. Fortunately, no one was injured during the shooting, and the bullets only caused minor damage to the property. Initial investigations revealed that the attack was intended to intimidate Khan rather than harm him physically.

Involvement of the Bishnoi Gang
The Lawrence Bishnoi gang, notorious for its criminal activities, was quickly identified as the primary suspect in the shooting. Lawrence Bishnoi, currently in jail for various criminal charges, allegedly orchestrated the attack with the help of his brother, Anmol Bishnoi, who is based in Canada. The gang has a history of targeting high-profile individuals, often leveraging threats and violence to exert influence and settle scores.

Role of Vicky Kumar Gupta
Vicky Kumar Gupta, one of the accused in the shooting, filed a bail plea in the special MCOCA court, claiming he was a victim of circumstances. According to Gupta, he lost his job as a laborer in Tamil Nadu during the COVID-19 pandemic and reached out to Sagar Kumar Pal, an acquaintance from his hometown, for assistance. Gupta alleged that Pal arranged for him to work as a driver in Jalandhar, Punjab. However, upon reaching Jalandhar, Gupta was informed of a different plan.

Gupta claimed that he was misled into participating in the shooting under the guise of an “auspicious religious mission” in Mumbai. He stated that Anmol Bishnoi contacted him only after he arrived in Mumbai and outlined the plan to fire shots at Salman Khan’s residence. Gupta maintained that his role was limited to driving the motorcycle and ferrying Pal to Bandra while Pal executed the shooting. In his plea, Gupta emphasized his responsibility as the sole breadwinner for his family, urging the court to grant him bail due to the lengthy trial process.

Sagar Kumar Pal’s Participation
Sagar Kumar Pal, another key figure in the incident, is accused of being the one who actually fired the shots at Salman Khan’s apartment. According to Gupta’s statements, Pal orchestrated the operation and was responsible for executing the threat. The police investigation revealed that Pal had connections with the Bishnoi gang and played a crucial role in carrying out the plan devised by Anmol Bishnoi.

Bail Plea by Vicky Kumar Gupta
In his bail plea, Vicky Kumar Gupta presented himself as a victim of circumstances, emphasizing his lack of knowledge about the true nature of the mission until he arrived in Mumbai. His legal representatives argued that Gupta’s involvement was minimal and that he acted under duress, influenced by Anmol Bishnoi’s assurances of safety. Gupta’s plea highlighted his family responsibilities and financial struggles, seeking relief from prolonged judicial custody.

Special MCOCA Court’s Role
The special MCOCA (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act) court is tasked with handling cases involving organized crime and gang-related activities. In this instance, the court has taken a keen interest due to the involvement of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, a well-known criminal organization. Special Judge BD Shelke directed the Mumbai police crime branch to respond to Gupta’s bail application and scheduled a hearing for August 13, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation and fair legal proceedings.

Public Reaction
The shooting incident has sparked widespread concern and outrage among the public. Fans of Salman Khan, as well as the general populace, have expressed their shock and disbelief at the audacity of the attack. Social media platforms were flooded with messages of support for Khan and calls for justice against those responsible. The incident also reignited discussions about the security of celebrities and the influence of organized crime in India.

Media Coverage
The media extensively covered the shooting incident, highlighting the ongoing tensions between Salman Khan and the Bishnoi community. News outlets reported on the background of the case, the involvement of the Bishnoi gang, and the legal proceedings against the accused. The incident also drew attention to the broader issue of celebrity security and the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in tackling organized crime.

Conclusion
The shooting at Salman Khan’s Bandra residence serves as a stark reminder of the influence and reach of organized crime syndicates in India. While the attack was intended as a threat, it underscores the need for stringent security measures and effective law enforcement to safeguard high-profile individuals and combat criminal activities. The legal proceedings in this case will play a crucial role in determining the extent of involvement of each accused and delivering justice. As the trial unfolds, the spotlight remains on the Bishnoi gang and the broader implications of this incident for the Bollywood industry and Indian society at large.