AMRITSAR, Feb. 27 -- The death of 19-year-old Ranjit Singh in an alleged encounter by the Punjab Police has triggered sharp criticism from human rights groups, religious organisations and political leaders, who have demanded a thorough investigation and justice for the family.

Ranjit, who was one of the three youths accused of killing a Punjab Police assistant sub-inspector (ASI) and a home guard jawan, was shot dead in an encounter near Puranashala village, about 8km from Gurdaspur on the Gurdaspur-Mukerian road near Tibri cantonment, early Wednesday morning.

The second accused, Dilawar Singh (19) of Ali Nangal village, has been arrested, while the third accused, Inderjit Singh (21), also a resident of Adhian, remains absconding.

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