RoadAccident – Punjab Congress Leader Khushbaz Singh Jatan Dies in Highway Crash
RoadAccident – The fatal accident involving senior Punjab Congress leader Khushbaz Singh Jatan has raised serious concerns about road safety on high-speed expressways.
A tragic road accident on Thursday night claimed the life of senior Congress leader Khushbaz Singh Jatan and his driver on the Eastern Peripheral Expressway near Sonipat. The incident occurred on April 2 when their vehicle was struck from behind by a speeding truck while halted on the roadside. A police constable accompanying them suffered critical injuries and remains under medical care.
Collision Occurs During Tyre Repair Stop
According to initial reports, Jatan was travelling from Delhi to Punjab when the mishap took place. His car had developed a puncture, forcing the group to pull over near the Jakholi toll plaza. After replacing the damaged tyre, they were preparing to resume their journey when a truck reportedly crashed into their stationary vehicle at high speed.
The impact proved fatal for Jatan and his driver, Parminder Singh, both of whom died at the scene. The accompanying gunman, constable Karandeep Singh of the Punjab Police, sustained severe injuries and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital. Doctors have described his condition as critical.
Police Response and Investigation Underway
Local police authorities reached the accident site soon after receiving information. The bodies were taken into custody and transported to Sonipat Civil Hospital, where post-mortem examinations are expected to be conducted.
Kundli Station House Officer Sethi Malik confirmed the details, stating that the group had stopped due to a punctured tyre when the collision occurred. He added that efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the truck driver responsible for the crash.
“The vehicle was stationary when it was hit by an unidentified truck. Two people lost their lives, while one is undergoing treatment. The driver fled the scene, and teams have been deployed to trace him,” the officer said.
Driver Flees Scene, Search Operations Continue
The truck driver reportedly escaped immediately after the accident, leaving behind a severely damaged vehicle and critically injured victims. Police have launched a manhunt and are conducting raids in nearby areas to locate the accused.
Investigators are also reviewing CCTV footage from toll plazas and nearby stretches of the expressway to identify the vehicle involved. Officials believe that tracking the truck’s route could provide crucial leads in the case.
Political Background of the Deceased Leader
Khushbaz Singh Jatan was a known figure in Punjab politics and had been actively associated with the Congress party for several years. He had contested the 2022 Punjab Assembly elections from the Talwandi Sabo constituency in Bathinda. In addition to his electoral role, he had also served in a leadership position within the state government as a chairman.
Party members and local leaders have expressed shock and grief over his sudden demise, describing him as a dedicated worker with strong grassroots connections.
Concerns Over Expressway Safety
The accident has once again highlighted safety concerns on high-speed corridors like the Eastern Peripheral Expressway. Experts have often pointed out the risks associated with vehicles stopping on expressways, especially in poorly lit conditions or without adequate warning signals.
Authorities have urged drivers to follow safety protocols, including placing reflective warning signs and ensuring vehicles are visible to oncoming traffic during emergencies.
Medical Condition of Injured Constable
Meanwhile, constable Karandeep Singh continues to receive treatment in a critical condition. Medical teams are closely monitoring his recovery, and further updates are awaited.
The incident remains under investigation, with police focusing on identifying the truck and ensuring accountability for the fatal crash.