Sukhbir Badal Survives Golden Temple Attack: Punjab CM Praises Police

A dramatic incident unfolded outside the Golden Temple in Amritsar on Wednesday when Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal narrowly escaped an assassination attempt.

The attacker, identified as Narain Singh Chaura from Dera Baba Nanak, attempted to shoot Badal while he was sitting in a wheelchair, performing his duty as a 'sewadar' (volunteer) outside the holy site, as reported by Hindustan Times. However, the shooter missed his target, and Badal remained unscathed due to the swift intervention of bystanders who overpowered the attacker before any further harm could be done.

The Attack and Quick Response

Footage of the incident revealed the chilling moment when the assailant calmly walked towards Badal and drew a firearm from his pocket. A nearby individual quickly intervened, grabbing the attacker's hand, and in the chaos, a bullet struck the wall behind Badal. Punjab Police, present at the scene, acted swiftly and arrested Narain Singh on the spot, preventing a major crisis.

Police Praised for Prompt Action

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann praised the swift response of the police, calling the intervention a "major success" in thwarting a potential tragedy. On social media, he applauded the police for preventing an attack that could have defamed Punjab and its people. "The police's promptness has ensured the failure of the conspiracy," said CM Mann, stressing that a thorough investigation would follow.

Police Commissioner of Amritsar, Gurpreet Singh Bhullar, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the "alertness and deployment" of the force in foiling the assassination attempt. He commended the bravery of the officers involved, particularly Constable Rishpal Singh, who played a crucial role in apprehending the assailant.

Opposition Condemns Punjab Government's Negligence

While the police were commended for their swift actions, the opposition, particularly leaders from SAD and Congress, criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Punjab government for its handling of law and order. SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema expressed his shock at the attack, asking, "What era is Punjab being pushed into?" He questioned CM Bhagwant Mann's leadership and called for a high-level judicial inquiry into the incident.

Congress also condemned the incident, with Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring blaming government negligence. Warring demanded strict punishment for the attacker, stating, "This is a clear reflection of the law and order situation in Punjab under this government. The ACP should be suspended, and immediate action should be taken to address the security lapse."

The Assailant's Background

Narain Singh Chaura, the accused, has a criminal history and was previously involved in several cases. Police officials are investigating his past records to determine if there were any links to extremist groups or other criminal activities. Despite the attacker's criminal background, security arrangements for Badal were reportedly in place according to his threat assessment.

Badal's Religious Punishment

Following the attack, Sukhbir Singh Badal resumed his religious duty at the Golden Temple, as per a directive from the Akal Takht. Dressed in a blue 'sewadar' uniform, holding a spear, and wearing a small board acknowledging his "misdeeds," Badal continued to sit at the temple entrance, reaffirming his commitment to religious service.

A Close Call for Badal

The failed assassination attempt has raised questions about the growing political tensions in Punjab and the security of prominent political figures. As investigations continue, the incident highlights the volatile political climate in the state, with the opposition accusing the government of failing to provide adequate protection to public figures despite heightened security concerns. In the coming days, all eyes will be on the investigation's outcome and any further measures the Punjab government might take to ensure the safety of its leaders and citizens.