NEW DELHI: The recent assassination attempt on Sukhbir Singh Badal, leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and former Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab, has raised alarms about the state’s deteriorating law and order. On December 4, 2024, while Badal was outside the Golden Temple in Amritsar, an assailant opened fire at him but missed. The quick actions of bystanders prevented the attack from escalating.
Big Breaking: Attack on Sukhbir Badal outside Sri Darbar Sahib, Amritsar. A gunshot was fired by Dal Khalsa activist Narain Singh Chaura while Sukhbir Badal was performing sewa outside the Darbar Sahib. More details are awaited. #SukhbirBadalAttack pic.twitter.com/O9uSuayqGV
— Gagandeep Singh (@Gagan4344) December 4, 2024
The assailant, identified as Narain Singh Chaura, a former Khalistani militant with multiple past terror cases, attempted to shoot Sukhbir Singh Badal while he was in a wheelchair. However, a nearby sewadar quickly intervened, pushing Chaura’s hand upward, causing him to miss his target. The bullet missed Badal and struck the wall of the sacred Golden Temple. Chaura, who had been underground for some time, remains a significant figure in Punjab’s ongoing security concerns.
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Badal, who has Z-plus security, was targeted in a brazen attack, highlighting the growing insecurity in Punjab. Political leaders have condemned the attack, expressing concerns about the safety of both public figures and citizens.
सुखबीर बादल पर जानलेवा हमला चिंताजनक, गंभीर और निंदनीय है, ये पंजाब कि बिगड़ी हुई कानून व्यवस्था का आईना हमें दिख रहा है अगर एक पूर्व उप – मुख्यमंत्री जिसके पास ज़ेड प्लस सिक्योरिटी है उसपर इस तरह हमला हो सकता है तो पंजाब कि आम जनता की सुरक्षा का हाल कैसा होगा ? pic.twitter.com/zuH0U4prNW
— Tarun Chugh (@tarunchughbjp) December 4, 2024
Tarun Chugh, BJP National General Secretary, said, “The assassination attempt on Sukhbir Badal is concerning, serious, and condemnable. It reflects the deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab. If an ex-Deputy Chief Minister with Z-plus security can be targeted in this manner, one must question the safety of ordinary citizens in Punjab.”
This attack has prompted widespread condemnation and highlighted the increasing insecurity in the state. Despite Badal’s high-level security, the ease with which the assailant approached him has raised alarming questions about the effectiveness of current security measures.
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The attack raises serious concerns regarding public safety, political accountability, and the state’s ability to maintain stability. Ongoing violence could hinder governance efforts and deter potential investment in Punjab.
This assassination attempt serves as a stark reminder of Punjab’s law and order issues. As calls for action grow, the AAP government must address these concerns transparently to restore public confidence and ensure a stable future for the state.