
A man accused of shooting a 17-year-old girl in Faridabad earlier this week was injured in a police encounter after he allegedly opened fire on officers during a search operation. The accused, identified as a stalker who had been on the run, fired multiple rounds before being shot in the leg by police. The incident has reignited concerns over rising cases of stalking and gender-based violence in urban parts of Haryana and the National Capital Region.
The incident and police encounter
According to police reports, the accused had been absconding since the shooting of a teenage girl in Faridabad’s Sector 8 area. Acting on a tip-off, a special police team tracked him down near a deserted patch in Ballabgarh on Thursday evening. When officers attempted to arrest him, he reportedly fired at them in a bid to escape.
In retaliation, the police returned fire, hitting him in the leg. The accused was later taken into custody and shifted to a local hospital for treatment. Officials confirmed that one police officer also sustained a minor injury during the exchange but is now stable.
Background of the case
The suspect had allegedly shot a Class 12 student near her residence earlier this week after she repeatedly rejected his advances. The girl suffered serious injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she remains under medical observation.
Police said that the accused had been stalking her for several months and had previously been warned by the girl’s family to stay away. However, his behaviour escalated, culminating in the violent incident that shocked residents of the area.
Police response and investigation progress
Following the attack, police formed multiple teams to track down the shooter. CCTV footage and local intelligence were used to narrow down his movements, eventually leading to Thursday’s encounter. The weapon used in the crime has been recovered, and investigators are examining whether the accused acted alone or had assistance in evading arrest.
Authorities are also looking into his background to determine if he has a history of similar behaviour or prior criminal cases. Faridabad Police have assured that strict action will be taken and that evidence will be compiled swiftly for prosecution.
Public and civic reactions
The case has triggered public outrage, with residents demanding stronger enforcement of laws protecting women and stricter penalties for stalking and harassment. Local women’s rights groups have urged authorities to expedite justice and improve surveillance in sensitive zones, particularly near schools and colleges.
For parents and residents of Tier 2 cities like Faridabad and Gurugram, the incident is a chilling reminder of how stalking can quickly turn violent if not reported or addressed in time.
Experts call for stronger preventive measures
Psychologists and law enforcement experts believe that early reporting of harassment and community awareness can play a crucial role in preventing such incidents. They also suggest that police departments in expanding urban areas must invest in better digital tracking and coordination between cybercrime and women’s safety units.
Legal experts add that while India has strong provisions under Sections 354D and 307 of the IPC for stalking and attempted murder, enforcement often depends on swift action and societal support.
Conclusion:
The Faridabad shooting and subsequent police encounter have once again exposed the alarming rise of stalking-related crimes in urban India. As authorities continue their probe, the focus must shift toward prevention, accountability, and public awareness. For residents in growing city regions like Faridabad and Gurugram, the case is not just about one act of violence—it’s a call for a more responsive and safer urban environment.