Amritsar: Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal narrowly escaped an assassination attempt this morning at the Golden Temple in Amritsar while serving his penance. The shooter, identified as Narain Singh from Gurdaspur district, was apprehended on the spot by alert bystanders and police officers.
The incident occurred around 9 am, as Mr. Badal, dressed in a blue ‘sewadar’ uniform and seated in a wheelchair, performed his duties at the temple entrance. Narain Singh approached the gate, concealed a weapon, and attempted to fire. A nearby man intervened in time, causing the bullet to miss its target and hit the wall.
Visuals from the scene show Singh being subdued and arrested immediately. Amritsar Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar confirmed that Singh, who has a criminal record, is being investigated for motives linked to Khalistani terrorist group Babbar Khalsa.
Political and Security Reactions
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann praised the swift response of the state police, calling it a successful thwarting of a “conspiracy to defame Punjab and Punjabis.” The Chief Minister assured a thorough investigation into the incident.
Opposition leaders expressed concern over Punjab’s security situation. Former SAD MP Naresh Gujral criticized the government for failing to maintain law and order, while BJP leader Vijay Sampla termed the attack on Mr. Badal an affront to the Golden Temple itself. Congress MP Manish Tewari called for a swift investigation and emphasized that it was God’s grace that Mr. Badal remained unharmed.
Aam Aadmi Party minister Aman Arora countered opposition claims, stating that the police acted promptly and prevented a tragedy.
Background of Narain Singh
Narain Singh is linked to Babbar Khalsa and was reportedly involved in the infamous 2004 Burail jailbreak case, which enabled four prisoners, including high-profile terrorists, to escape via a 94-foot tunnel. Singh’s links to Khalistani groups are being scrutinized as part of the ongoing investigation.
Sukhbir Badal’s Penance
The SAD leader is currently serving a religious punishment, or tankhah, pronounced by the Akal Takht for decisions taken during his party’s rule, including pardoning Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in a 2007 blasphemy case. Mr. Badal has been performing sewa (selfless service) duties such as cleaning shoes and washing dishes at the Golden Temple and other gurdwaras.
This shocking attack has raised concerns over the safety of political leaders and the sanctity of religious spaces. Authorities continue to investigate, with promises of swift justice for those involved in the attempt on Mr. Badal’s life.
