The Incident in Ghaziabad
Two men who allegedly opened fire outside Bollywood actress Disha Patani’s residence were shot dead in a police encounter in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, according to Indian media reports. Authorities said the men were intercepted after days of investigation and surveillance.
The attackers had earlier fired outside Patani’s home, sparking panic and leading to increased security for the actress and her family. Following the shooting, police had launched a search operation that culminated in the confrontation.
Links to Bishnoi Gang
Police identified the deceased as members of the notorious Bishnoi gang. The group has been in headlines in recent years for its involvement in high-profile threats against Bollywood celebrities.
The Bishnoi gang first gained wider attention when gangster Lawrence Bishnoi allegedly threatened actor Salman Khan in 2018. Since then, Khan and his family have been provided heightened security.
In this case, investigators believe the shooters were acting under instructions from gangsters Goldy Brar and Rohit Godara, both of whom are associated with Bishnoi’s network. The two men reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack.
Motive Behind the Attack
According to police statements, the gang members alleged that Disha Patani’s sister, Khushboo Patani, had used derogatory remarks against their so-called “spiritual leader.” In a threatening message, they warned that any repeat of such behavior would lead to harsher consequences.
Authorities are still probing whether this motive was genuine or whether the attack was intended as part of the gang’s broader campaign of intimidation targeting Bollywood personalities.
Police Response and Recovery of Weapons
Security agencies responded swiftly after the initial firing incident. Intelligence units and police teams conducted raids across several districts. This eventually led them to the location of the suspects.
During the encounter, both attackers opened fire on police. Officers returned fire, killing the two. Law enforcement officials confirmed that weapons used in the earlier attack were recovered at the scene.
“The operation has neutralized two dangerous criminals linked to an organized crime network,” one senior officer told reporters. He added that investigations are ongoing to trace others connected to the case.
Bollywood and Rising Security Threats
The incident highlights growing concerns about the safety of Bollywood stars, who have increasingly become targets of extortion, threats, and violence by criminal gangs.
In 2023, Salman Khan reported receiving fresh death threats, prompting Mumbai Police to upgrade his security to Y+ category.
Singers and film producers have also been threatened in recent years, with gangs often using intimidation to extort money.
Disha Patani, known for her roles in films such as MS Dhoni: The Untold Story and Baaghi 2, had largely stayed away from controversies. This attack has therefore drawn considerable public and media attention.
Government and Public Reaction
The encounter has reignited debate in India about gang violence and its intersection with the film industry. Many social media users expressed shock that an actress like Patani, not previously linked to disputes, could become a target.
State officials assured that strict measures were being taken. “The safety of citizens, including public figures, remains our top priority,” a spokesperson for the Uttar Pradesh Police said.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities confirmed that further investigations are underway to determine whether the shooters had local support networks in Mumbai or Ghaziabad. Police are also scrutinizing communications between the attackers and gang leaders abroad.
For now, Disha Patani and her family remain under tight security. While the immediate threat appears to have been neutralized, officials warn that the influence of organized crime groups like the Bishnoi gang continues to pose risks to Bollywood figures.
