A young man was shot dead in broad daylight at a crowded market in Meerut district on Wednesday afternoon, triggering panic in the area.

The incident occurred in the Ramraj locality under Bahsuma police station limits. The victim, identified as Sunil Singh Dulla, was returning from his farm when bike-borne assailants opened fire on him near the Sanatan Dharma site in the Bahsuma market.

According to police, Sunil was hit by multiple bullets. One shot struck him in the waist from behind, while another hit his temple. He collapsed on the spot. Locals rushed him to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.

The shooting caused chaos in the busy market area. Police teams immediately reached the spot, secured the scene, and sent the body for post-mortem examination.

Preliminary investigation suggests the murder may be linked to a personal dispute stemming from a love affair. Police sources said the victim had recently married a woman whose former husband allegedly held a grudge against him. The family claims the ex-husband had earlier fired at the woman, though she escaped unharmed.

Police are examining CCTV footage from nearby shops and roads to identify the attackers. A search operation is currently underway.

Abhijit Kumar, SP Rural, arrived at the scene along with senior officials and stated that all angles are being investigated. He assured that the accused will be arrested soon.