Ghaziabad-based journalist Vikram Joshi, who was shot in the head by some assailants, succumbed to injuries early Wednesday, his family said.

Joshi had lodged a complaint with the police alleging harassment of his niece on July 16 and was shot at around 10.30pm on Monday near his home in Vijay Nagar area, according to officials.

"Yes, he (Vikram Joshi) is no more. He passed away at around 4am during treatment at the hospital," a family member told PTI.

Joshi, who worked with a local daily, was admitted to a private hospital.

So far, nine people have been arrested in connection with the case, according to the police.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday attacked the UP government over the killing of the journalist and said people were promised 'Ram Raj' but got 'Gundaraj' instead.

He also condoled the death of Joshi.

"Journalist Vikram Joshi was killed for opposing the molestation of his niece. My condolences to the bereaved family. The promise was of giving 'Ram Raj', but gave 'Gundaraj'," he said in a tweet in Hindi.

Congress leader Ahmed Patel said the killing of the journalist is shocking and another example of the breakdown of law and order in Uttar Pradesh.

Slamming the UP govt over the killing, BSP chief Mayawati said "crime virus" spread by criminals is more active than coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh.

"The way heinous crimes like murder and those against women are continuing unabated, it is clear that instead of law and order, jungle raj is prevailing in UP. Crime virus of criminals is more active than coronavirus in UP. People are fed up and the government must address this issue," Mayawati said in a tweet in Hindi.