Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on Wednesday when a man fired shots at him outside the Golden Temple. The assailant, identified as Narain Singh Chaura, a former member of the banned Khalistani separatist group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), was quickly subdued by security personnel and arrested.
The incident occurred as Badal was performing the duties of a sewadar (volunteer) near the revered Sikh shrine. He was seated in a wheelchair at the time. Fortunately, the bullet missed its target, striking a wall instead, leaving Badal unhurt.
Videos circulating on social media captured the dramatic sequence. In one clip, Narain Singh Chaura is seen walking nonchalantly towards the Golden Temple before pulling out a firearm and firing shots. Security personnel responded immediately, overpowering him moments after the attack.
Speaking to ANI, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Harpal Singh confirmed that security arrangements were in place at the site. “Sukhbir ji was properly covered. The assailant, Narayan Singh Chaura, had visited the Golden Temple yesterday as well. Today, he paid obeisance before attempting this mischief,” Singh said.
He added that despite the assailant’s attempts, the security measures ensured no harm came to Badal.
Authorities are investigating the motivations behind the attack, particularly Chaura’s ties to Babbar Khalsa International and his intentions. Additional security has been deployed around the Golden Temple in light of the incident.
This brazen attack raises concerns about the safety of political leaders and the need for heightened vigilance in public spaces, especially at sites of religious and cultural significance.
