Prayers, walk to gurdwara langar hall, then strike: Blow-by-blow of ‘kirpan’ attack on SAD’s Sukhbir Singh Badal
Kirpan Attack on Sukhbir Singh Badal in Nanded
Bharatmorningnews.com – During a prayers walk to gurdwara langar hall in Nanded, Maharashtra, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal sustained a hand injury when he was struck by a kirpan. The incident occurred on Thursday as the political leader and former Punjab deputy chief minister made his way toward the community kitchen at Gurdwara Mata Sahib Kaur. A Nihang Sikh approached Badal and delivered a swift blow with the traditional blade, injuring his right hand.
Setting the Scene: Nanded Pilgrimage
Badal had traveled to Nanded for a three-day pilgrimage accompanied by his spouse and Harsimrat Kaur Badal, the Member of Parliament representing Bathinda constituency. The delegation's religious journey commenced at Takht Nanded Sahib, one of the five sacred temporal seats in Sikh tradition. Video footage captured by our news team showed the SAD president offering prayers inside the shrine while Harsimrat Kaur Badal stood nearby in reverence.
Following the devotional session, Badal received a siropa—a ceremonial honor—bestowed by the gurdwara's senior priests. The delegation then proceeded to Gurdwara Mata Sahib Kaur, situated approximately 15 kilometers from the principal Nanded shrine on the city's periphery. This particular gurdwara maintains distinct governance separate from the board that oversees the Hazur Sahib shrine and holds special significance for the Nihang Sikh community.
The Attack Unfolds
After completing prayers at Mata Sahib Kaur, Badal began his prayers walk to gurdwara langar hall when the assault occurred. An individual approached rapidly and struck him with a kirpan, the traditional Sikh blade. The injury landed on Badal's right hand.
Reports indicate the assailant was a Nihang in his mid-sixties, clad in the characteristic blue garments worn by members of this sect. Following the incident, medical personnel transported Badal to Yashosai Hospital for treatment.
Law enforcement officers secured the attacker and launched an inquiry into the motivations behind the confrontation. The incident has renewed scrutiny regarding the protective measures surrounding the SAD president during his religious visits.
Context: Second Major Assault in Two Years
This episode marks the second significant attack on Badal within a twenty-four-month span. On December 4, 2024, he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt outside Amritsar's Golden Temple. Former militant Narain Singh Chaura allegedly fired at close range, but a security guard intercepted the assailant's pistol. The projectile struck the shrine's wall rather than Badal, and no casualties were reported in that incident. Chaura was subdued and taken into custody.
Political observers note that Badal's frequent pilgrimages to sacred sites across India have made him a visible target. His commitment to religious observances, including the prayers walk to gurdwara langar, demonstrates his dedication to Sikh traditions even amid political responsibilities.
Medical Treatment and Investigation
Badal received immediate medical attention at Yashosai Hospital in Nanded. Doctors assessed the severity of the kirpan wound and provided appropriate treatment. Local police registered a case and began investigating the attacker's background and possible motives. The Nihang community has also been consulted as part of the inquiry.
The incident has sparked discussions about security protocols for senior political figures during religious pilgrimages. SAD leaders have expressed concern while emphasizing that such isolated incidents should not deter Badal from continuing his spiritual journey.
FAQ: Understanding the Kirpan Attack
What is a kirpan? A kirpan is a traditional Sikh blade or dagger that is one of the Five Ks (articles of faith) worn by initiated Sikhs. It symbolizes courage and the duty to protect the weak.
Who is Sukhbir Singh Badal? Sukhbir Singh Badal is the president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and served as Punjab's deputy chief minister. He is a prominent political leader in Punjab.
Where is Nanded located? Nanded is a city in Maharashtra state, India. It is home to Takht Nanded Sahib, one of the five sacred temporal seats in Sikh tradition.
What is a Nihang? Nihangs are a sect of Sikhs known for their distinctive blue attire and martial traditions. They are often seen at Sikh religious sites and ceremonies.
Was this the first attack on Badal? No, this was the second major attack. The first occurred on December 4, 2024, at Amritsar's Golden Temple when former militant Narain Singh Chaura attempted to shoot him.