Ajay Rai Targets UP Government Following Singer Ankit Baliyan’s Murder

Baliyan was gunned down on August 26 outside a gym in Shamli. While a social media post attributed to the Gogi gang claimed responsibility for the hit—allegedly citing a song reference as the motive—investigators have yet to verify the claim. Rai used the tragedy to assail the government, accusing officials of prioritizing self-praise over public safety and suggesting that mafia elements continue to enjoy protection.

The political fallout deepened as Rai also condemned the registration of a case against Rahul Gandhi regarding the Haldwani controversy, describing it as an affront to the Dalit community. Meanwhile, Union Minister and RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary visited the bereaved family, emphasizing that public confidence in the system remains the primary hurdle for state authorities. His visit coincided with a confrontation between police and the suspects; the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force killed two alleged sharpshooters in an encounter just hours earlier.

For the victim's family, the police response offers a fragile sense of relief. Baliyan’s wife, Swati, and his father, Satbir, expressed gratitude for the prompt neutralization of the shooters but demanded the apprehension of all remaining conspirators. As the sole breadwinner for his household, Baliyan’s death has left his family in crisis, prompting his mother to issue a desperate plea for justice. Police investigations into the broader criminal network linked to the killing remain ongoing.