Udhampur, Aug 14: One person was killed and another critically injured after a Village Defence Committee member allegedly opened fire on two colleagues in the Damnot area of Udhampur district on Friday.

Officials said the incident occurred when Surjeet Singh, son of Chain Singh and a resident of Sasri Damnot Morha, Kulthle, Tehsil Moungri, allegedly fired at two persons while they were travelling towards Damnot Police Post.

In the firing, Baldev Singh, son of Karta Singh, died on the spot. The second person, Romesh Singh, son of Nak Ram, sustained serious injuries and was shifted to a hospital for treatment. His condition is reported to be critical.

Police said all the persons involved in the incident are members of the Village Defence Committee.

According to preliminary information, the firing followed an argument that broke out among them while they were travelling.

A police team reached the spot soon after the incident. The area was cordoned off and an investigation has been initiated.

Officials said legal proceedings are underway and further details are being ascertained.