Sukbir Singh Badal, president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), narrowly escaped an assassination attempt at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. A gunman, identified as former Khalistani militant Narain Singh Chaura, tried to shoot Badal during a penance ritual. The incident has sparked renewed concerns about security at one of Sikhism’s holiest sites.
Attack Thwarted by Security and Bystanders
The assailant entered the temple disguised as a visitor and approached Badal, who was seated in a wheelchair near the temple entrance. Chaura fired a single shot that missed Badal and struck a marble pillar. Badal’s security team and onlookers quickly overpowered Chaura before he could fire again. Police arrested him on the spot and have launched an investigation into his motives.
Penance and Vulnerability
Badal was performing penance at the Golden Temple as mandated by Sikh religious leaders. Wearing a traditional blue ‘sewadar’ uniform and holding a spear, he sought forgiveness for alleged missteps during his party’s governance of Punjab before 2017. His vulnerable position during the penance raised questions about the adequacy of his security arrangements.
Condemnation and Security Criticism
Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring condemned the attack, accusing the state government of negligence. He criticized the security lapses that allowed the gunman to get so close to Badal. Warring demanded strict punishment for the assailant and called for the suspension of the Additional Commissioner of Police.
In response, Punjab Police confirmed that Badal’s security has been increased following the incident. “The assailant is in custody, and investigations are ongoing,” said senior officer Harpal Singh.
Chaura’s Militant Background
Narain Singh Chaura has a history of involvement with radical elements. A former Khalistani militant, Chaura played an active role in Punjab’s insurgency during the 1980s. He was known for smuggling arms and explosives and reportedly authored guerrilla warfare literature while in Pakistan.
In 2013, Chaura was arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for aiding terrorists in the 2003 Burail jailbreak, which facilitated the escape of Babbar Khalsa operatives. Released in 2018 after serving five years in prison, his re-emergence as a threat highlights the enduring challenge of dealing with extremist elements in Punjab.
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Golden Temple’s Troubled History
The Golden Temple has seen violent incidents before, most notably during Operation Blue Star in 1984. The Indian military’s assault to remove militants inside the temple led to significant loss of life and long-lasting tensions in Punjab. The recent shooting attempt underscores the importance of heightened vigilance at this revered site.
Broader Implications
This attack comes amid growing political and social tensions in Punjab. The resurgence of figures like Chaura raises concerns about a revival of extremist ideologies. As investigations continue, authorities are under pressure to ensure security for leaders and the public while addressing the roots of radicalization in the region
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