2 attacks in 2 years, 2 escapes: Sukhbir Singh Badal attack in Nanded reminiscent of close call in Amritsar
2 Attacks in 2 Years 2 Escapes: Badal’s Nanded Incident Mirrors Amritsar
Sukhbir Singh Badal Survives Second Kirpan Attack at Maharashtra Gurdwara
Bharatmorningnews.com – Sukhbir Singh Badal, the Shiromani Akali Dal president and former deputy chief minister of Punjab, has once again narrowly escaped an attack. This time, the dramatic incident unfolded outside a gurdwara in Maharashtra on Thursday, reminding observers of his close call in Amritsar just months ago.
The Nanded assault marks the second such occurrence for Badal within a span of less than two years. It brings to mind a dramatic near-miss that happened at the Golden Temple in Amritsar during December 2024, when a bullet narrowly missed the political leader during his religious penance.
Details of the Nanded Incident
According to reports, a Nihang assailant targeted Badal at Gurdwara Mata Sahib Kaur, located on the outskirts of Nanded district. The former leader sustained a hand injury during the confrontation and was promptly transported to Yashosai Hospital for medical care. The attack unfolded approximately 15 kilometers from Gurdwara Nanded Sahib, which stands as one of Sikhism’s five temporal seats, or Takhts.
Badal was reportedly making his way to the langar hall after offering prayers when the Nihang struck him with a kirpan. Notably, this particular gurdwara operates under a Nihang samparday rather than the board responsible for managing the main Nanded Sahib shrine. This distinction may have played a role in the nature of the confrontation that ensued.
Recalling the Amritsar Attack
On December 4, 2024, Badal survived what was described as an assassination attempt while engaged in seva at the Golden Temple entrance. He was fulfilling a religious punishment, known as tankhah, which the Sikh clergy had imposed following alleged errors during the SAD’s governance of Punjab between 2007 and 2017.
The shooter, identified as former militant Narain Singh Chaura, allegedly came close to Badal and discharged his weapon at point-blank range. Security personnel played a crucial role in saving Badal’s life. A volunteer stepped in and seized Chaura’s hands, redirecting the bullet so it struck a wall roughly six feet away from where Badal was seated.
During that 2024 incident, Badal was performing his duties as a sewadar, or volunteer. He sat in a wheelchair dressed in the traditional blue sewadar attire while gripping a spear. His leg was fractured at the time, yet he persisted with his religious obligations even after the failed attempt on his life.
Camera Footage Reveals Dramatic Moments
Video recordings captured the second day of Badal’s penance, showing Chaura approaching him before drawing a firearm from his pocket. A volunteer positioned near the SAD chief reacted swiftly, grabbing the attacker as he fired, which enabled Badal to emerge unharmed. The footage has since circulated widely, providing visual evidence of the remarkable intervention that saved the political leader’s life.
Badal’s Nanded Visit
Badal had reached Nanded on Wednesday alongside his family and several close associates for a three-day stay. The gurdwara incident occurred while he was inside the premises with his wife, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, who serves as a SAD member of parliament. The Nanded attack has once again highlighted the dangers faced by prominent political figures, drawing parallels to the earlier Amritsar episode where quick thinking and intervention prevented tragedy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the connection between the Nanded and Amritsar attacks?
Both incidents involved Sukhbir Singh Badal facing life-threatening situations within a two-year period. In Amritsar, he survived a gunshot attempt during his religious penance, while in Nanded, he was struck with a kirpan by a Nihang assailant outside a gurdwara.
Who was the attacker in the Amritsar incident?
The shooter was identified as Narain Singh Chaura, a former militant who allegedly came close to Badal and discharged his weapon at point-blank range during the December 2024 incident.
What is the significance of Gurdwara Mata Sahib Kaur?
This gurdwara operates under a Nihang samparday rather than the board responsible for managing the main Nanded Sahib shrine. It is located approximately 15 kilometers from Gurdwara Nanded Sahib, one of Sikhism’s five temporal seats.
How did Badal escape both attacks?
In Amritsar, a volunteer grabbed the shooter’s hands, redirecting the bullet away from Badal. In Nanded, Badal sustained only a hand injury and was quickly transported to hospital for treatment.